Aberdeen Women forward Briana Salvetti sat down for the first time since her summer arrival to reflect on her switch from Stateside to Scotland and her new experience in Aberdeen.

The Dons take on Celtic at Balmoral Stadium on Sunday afternoon, kicking off a big week of games that culminates in our return to Pittodrie on Sunday 25 October.

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“I’ve been enjoying it so far. All the girls have made this experience as fun and lively as possible. It’s been a great experience. It’s my first experience of the professional game, getting minutes in and seeing how this league operates.

“I was based in California. I was doing college athletics at St Mary’s College of California, Division One. How I found Aberdeen was through my college head coach. She had connections with Aberdeen. I take every opportunity that I can get, so I sent him my CV and all my information. They took a look at it, really liked it, and we just talked from there. Now I’m here!

“I definitely had to give it a good thought because I haven’t lived out of the country or out of California my whole life. It was a decision to make, but I’m happy I made it, to get out and explore, and start my pro journey.”

Getting to grips

“I do watch the WSL in England, but not much of the Scottish league. I wasn’t familiar with it, but once I was introduced to Aberdeen, I did my own research and looked more into the league. I saw how high-energy and gritty this league was, which I believed would be a great first introduction for me, for getting myself out there.

“Once I got to know all the rich history, I was like, ‘this is a heartfelt club.’ They really care about their players and who they are and their identity.

“I would say it is a lot more physically demanding, going body to body with players.

“It’s still pretty technical though. I was expecting more brute force, the kind of Scottish play that’s well known. I would say the college system is a bit more technical, and it prepared me for my journey now.”

Looking to grow

“I think we have the energy and enthusiasm to continue to grow, which we have been doing continuously throughout our training sessions and into our matches. There is a lot more opportunity for us to grow. We’re not giving up on ourselves. We really want to continue to do well and just go up from here.

“I want to be a big contributor to this programme and to the team. I want to be a player you can count on in moments, whether it’s mentally needing to be brought back into the match or trying to get some goals, so we can get that confidence and belief back.”

Versality

“I took on that six role in recent weeks, in midfield. That came as a surprise! But I’m happy and willing to fulfil it and just do what’s best for the team.

“I was getting a lot of confidence and feedback from teammates and staff about how I was playing. I had some doubts about myself because I’d never played there, but I believe I gave my best effort in there. “I’m ready to solidify my best self back up at the nine, upfront and help us climb up the table now though!”

A big week ending at Pittodrie

“I’ve definitely put some thought into that game and how I want it to be a high-energy match for us, not going into it nervous and just having fun.

“Obviously, I’d love to get that first goal in the back of the net, hopefully during this coming three-game week.

“A good fanbase there would be great, and we will all be at 110%. I don’t want it to be too much pressure on us, but a good pressure that we’re able to handle and get a result out of.

“I think the energy in the stadium will be very beneficial for us.

“I couldn’t have imagined myself playing against them when I was a bit younger (Celtic). So now being able to play in this league, in games like this is an honour and a blessing to be here and to try and put my best foot forward.”

Adjusting to a new climate

“It’s been okay for now, the Scottish weather. On the pitch it has been fine, but when I’m off the pitch, it’s been an experience trying to stay warm…

“I’ve always just taken it in my stride. Going into college, I went in a little bit blind. I lived in California, but I had no idea who was going to be there. I’ve always dealt well with adversity and putting myself in a new environment, I think it’s a good challenge.