Westfield W-League 2012/13 season draw released

Tuesday, 18 September 2012 12:00 PM

The Westfield W-League 2012/13 Season Draw has been released with a revitalised eight team, 12-Round, 48 match regular season and two week finals series in what is sure to be a fascinating summer of football.

Season five of the Westfield W-League will kick-off on October 20 with a Grand Final re-match between Canberra United and Brisbane Roar.

Click here to see all the fixtures for 2012/13.

In Round 2 the Westfield W-League’s first ever inter-city derby will begin at Leichhardt Oval when Sydney FC host Western Sydney Wanderers FC.

Not only has the Westfield W-League expanded to eight teams, the number of rounds and fixtures have also increased giving fans, new and old, greater chance to witness the best women’s footballers in the country throughout the summer of football.

ABC TV will again be broadcasting the "Match of the Week" for all 12 Rounds of action in an all-new format and timeslot.

The new format will deliver a one-hour highlights package at the new timeslot of 5pm AEDT showing all the action in a jam-packed hour of the best of the Westfield W-League.

While the Westfield W-League 2013 finals series will be live and exclusive on ABC1.

Fans will also be able to watch matches live via ABC online or can catch up on the full match via ABC’s iView.

“The Westfield W-League has grown from strength-to-strength over the past four seasons and has become an integral part of the summer of sport on show in Australia,” head of Westfield W-League Damien de Bohun said.

“Anticipation for the coming season is strong, with an exciting new broadcast initiative, the league returning to an eight team format and the regeneration of our national team happening in front of our very eyes on Westfield W-League pitches across Australia, this season is sure to generate a huge amount of interest.

“This season will also be boosted by the added element of our first genuine derby with Wanderers FC set to take on Sydney FC in Round 2.

“I look forward to running, promoting and witnessing all the action this season in a summer of football that I am sure will resonate with many fans both nationally and internationally as we continue to grow the women’s game.”

Westfield W-League 2012/13 Season Key Dates:

- Grand Final rematch – Round 1 at McKellar Park between Canberra United and Brisbane Roar (20/10 @ 2pm AEDT)
- First Western Sydney Wanderers FC game away to Adelaide United at Burton Park (20/10 @ 2.30pm AEDT)
- First Brisbane Roar home match at Cleveland Showgrounds (3/11 @ 3.00pm AEDT)
- First Newcastle Jets home match against defending champions Canberra United at the Hunter’s Westfield W-League home, Wanderers Oval in Broadmeadow (27/10 @ 2.00pm AEDT)
- First inter-city derby in Westfield W-League history with Sydney FC playing Western Sydney Wanderers FC at Leichardt Oval (27/10 @ 2pm AEDT)
- First Western Sydney Wanderers FC home match at their official home of Campbelltown Stadium (3/11 @ 2pm against Perth Glory)
- First morning game to be played in Perth on 17 November @ 11am Local (Perth Glory vs. Sydney FC, nib Stadium)
- Sydney FC to play Perth Glory as curtain raiser to Sydney FC’s first Hyundai A-League home derby at Allianz Stadium on Saturday 15 December @ 5pm AEDT
- Westfield W-League 2013 Semi Finals – 19/20 January
- Westfield W-League 2013 Grand Final on Australia Day Weekend – 27 January, 2013
- 12 round and eight team competition (an increase of two rounds and one team from last season)
- Westfield W-League 2013 Semi Finals and Grand Final to be shown live and in full on ABC1

Click here to download the Westfield W-League 2012/13 season draw.

Finalisation of some venues and kick-off times still to be confirmed.

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/news-display/Westfield-WLeague-201213-season-draw-released/49177

Fixtures and results

Local time | AET

ROUND 1

Home Result Away Venue
20 Oct 12 2:00pm 20 Oct 12 2:00pm
Canberra United Vs Brisbane Roar Westfield W-League McKellar Park, Canberra

20 Oct 12 2:00pm 20 Oct 12 2:30pm
Adelaide United Vs WS Wanderers FC Westfield W-League Burton Park

21 Oct 12 10:30am 21 Oct 12 1:30pm
Perth Glory Vs Melbourne Victory Westfield W-League Intiga Stadium

21 Oct 12 3:00pm 21 Oct 12 3:00pm
Sydney FC Vs Newcastle Jets Westfield W-League Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

ROUND 2

Home Result Away Venue

27 Oct 12 2:00pm 27 Oct 12 2:00pm
Sydney FC Vs WS Wanderers FC Westfield W-League Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

27 Oct 12 2:00pm 27 Oct 12 2:00pm
Newcastle Jets Vs Canberra United Westfield W-League Wanderers Oval

27 Oct 12 3:00pm 27 Oct 12 6:00pm
Perth Glory Vs Adelaide United Westfield W-League Intiga Stadium

27 Oct 12 5:00pm 27 Oct 12 5:00pm
Melbourne Victory Vs Brisbane Roar Westfield W-League TBA

ROUND 3

Home Result Away Venue
3 Nov 12 2:00pm 3 Nov 12 2:00pm
Melbourne Victory Vs Newcastle Jets Westfield W-League Simonds Stadium

3 Nov 12 2:00pm 3 Nov 12 2:00pm
WS Wanderers FC Vs Perth Glory Westfield W-League Campbelltown Stadium

3 Nov 12 3:00pm 3 Nov 12 4:00pm
Brisbane Roar Vs Sydney FC Westfield W-League Cleveland Showgrounds

3 Nov 12 4:00pm 3 Nov 12 4:00pm
Canberra United Vs Adelaide United Westfield W-League McKellar Park, Canberra

ROUND 4

Home Result Away Venue

10 Nov 12 1:30pm 10 Nov 12 2:00pm
Adelaide United Vs Brisbane Roar Westfield W-League Hindmarsh Stadium

10 Nov 12 4:30pm 10 Nov 12 4:30pm
Newcastle Jets Vs Perth Glory Westfield W-League Wanderers Oval

11 Nov 12 2:00pm 11 Nov 12 2:00pm
WS Wanderers FC Vs Canberra United Westfield W-League Campbelltown Stadium

11 Nov 12 4:45pm 11 Nov 12 4:45pm
Sydney FC Vs Melbourne Victory Westfield W-League Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

ROUND 5

Home Result Away Venue
17 Nov 12 11:00am 17 Nov 12 2:00pm
Perth Glory Vs Sydney FC Westfield W-League nib Stadium

17 Nov 12 3:00pm 17 Nov 12 3:00pm
Melbourne Victory Vs Canberra United Westfield W-League TBA

17 Nov 12 3:00pm 17 Nov 12 4:00pm
Brisbane Roar Vs WS Wanderers FC Westfield W-League Cleveland Showgrounds

17 Nov 12 4:30pm 17 Nov 12 4:30pm
Newcastle Jets Vs Adelaide United Westfield W-League Wanderers Oval

ROUND 6

Home Result Away Venue

24 Nov 12 10:00am 24 Nov 12 11:00am
Brisbane Roar Vs Melbourne Victory Westfield W-League Queensland Sports & Athletics Centre, Nathan (QSAC)

24 Nov 12 2:00pm 24 Nov 12 2:30pm
Adelaide United Vs Sydney FC Westfield W-League Burton Park

24 Nov 12 4:00pm 24 Nov 12 4:00pm
Canberra United Vs Perth Glory Westfield W-League Deakin Football Stadium

25 Nov 12 2:00pm 25 Nov 12 2:00pm
WS Wanderers FC Vs Newcastle Jets Westfield W-League Campbelltown Stadium

ROUND 7

Home Result Away Venue

1 Dec 12 10:00am 1 Dec 12 10:00am
Sydney FC Vs Canberra United Westfield W-League Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

1 Dec 12 2:00pm 1 Dec 12 2:30pm
Adelaide United Vs Melbourne Victory Westfield W-League Burton Park

1 Dec 12 4:00pm 1 Dec 12 7:00pm
Perth Glory Vs WS Wanderers FC Westfield W-League Intiga Stadium

2 Dec 12 2:00pm 2 Dec 12 2:00pm
Newcastle Jets Vs Brisbane Roar Westfield W-League Wanderers Oval

ROUND 8

Home Result Away Venue

8 Dec 12 10:00am 8 Dec 12 11:00am
Brisbane Roar Vs Perth Glory Westfield W-League Queensland Sports & Athletics Centre, Nathan (QSAC)

8 Dec 12 2:00pm 8 Dec 12 2:00pm
WS Wanderers FC Vs Adelaide United Westfield W-League Campbelltown Stadium

8 Dec 12 4:00pm 8 Dec 12 4:00pm
Canberra United Vs Newcastle Jets Westfield W-League Deakin Football Stadium

8 Dec 12 5:00pm 8 Dec 12 5:00pm
Melbourne Victory Vs Sydney FC Westfield W-League TBA

ROUND 9

Home Result Away Venue

15 Dec 12 2:00pm 15 Dec 12 2:00pm
Canberra United Vs Melbourne Victory Westfield W-League McKellar Park, Canberra

15 Dec 12 4:00pm 15 Dec 12 4:30pm
Adelaide United Vs Newcastle Jets Westfield W-League Burton Park

15 Dec 12 5:00pm 15 Dec 12 5:00pm
Sydney FC Vs Perth Glory Westfield W-League Allianz Stadium

16 Dec 12 3:00pm 16 Dec 12 3:00pm
WS Wanderers FC Vs Brisbane Roar FC Westfield W-League Campbelltown Stadium

ROUND 10
Home Result Away Venue

22 Dec 12 3:00pm 22 Dec 12 3:00pm
Melbourne Victory Vs WS Wanderers FC Westfield W-League TBA

22 Dec 12 3:00pm 22 Dec 12 4:00pm
Brisbane Roar Vs Adelaide United Westfield W-League AJ Kelly Park

22 Dec 12 4:00pm 22 Dec 12 7:00pm
Perth Glory Vs Canberra United Westfield W-League Intiga Stadium

23 Dec 12 4:30pm 23 Dec 12 4:30pm
Newcastle Jets Vs Sydney FC Westfield W-League Wanderers Oval

ROUND 11

Home Result Away Venue

5 Jan 13 3:00pm 6 Jan 13 2:00am
Sydney FC Vs Brisbane Roar Westfield W-League Cromer Park

5 Jan 13 4:00pm 5 Jan 13 4:00pm
Canberra United Vs WS Wanderers FC Westfield W-League McKellar Park, Canberra

5 Jan 13 4:00pm 5 Jan 13 4:00pm
Melbourne Victory Vs Adelaide United Westfield W-League TBA

5 Jan 13 4:00pm 5 Jan 13 7:00pm
Perth Glory Vs Newcastle Jets Westfield W-League Intiga Stadium

ROUND 12

Home Result Away Venue

12 Jan 13 2:00pm 12 Jan 13 2:30pm
Adelaide United Vs Perth Glory Westfield W-League Burton Park

12 Jan 13 3:00pm 12 Jan 13 3:00pm
WS Wanderers FC Vs Sydney FC Westfield W-League Campbelltown Stadium

12 Jan 13 3:00pm 12 Jan 13 4:00pm
Brisbane Roar Vs Canberra United Westfield W-League Cleveland Showgrounds

13 Jan 13 4:30pm 13 Jan 13 4:30pm
Newcastle Jets Vs Melbourne Victory Westfield W-League

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/wleague/results

Lady Reds Membership Packages

Thursday, 27 September 2012 10:08 PM

Football Federation SA is pleased to announce the introduction of a new and exciting Membership package available for the Lady Reds 2012/13 Westfield W-League season.

The package includes a Membership card providing admission into all Lady Reds Home Games, team poster, player cards, bumper stickers and a Lady Reds T-Shirt.

Family packages are also available with the Membership also including special ‘Members Only’ opportunities such as exclusive weekly content and match-day experiences and voting rights for the inaugural Lady Reds Members Player of the Year.

Please call 8340 3088 for more information or fill in the online http://static.ffa.sportalhosting.com/site/_content/document/00000940-source.pdfform.

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/adelaideunited/news-display/Lady-Reds-Membership-Packages/49440

Sydney FC launches W League Membership

Thursday, 27 September 2012 2:37 PM

Sydney FC has launched a specific Westfield W-League Membership to cater for the rapidly increasing supporter base that the Sky Blues W-League team and women’s football is enjoying.

The Sydney FC W-League team has attracted a strong fan base since its inception and the W-League Membership caters for the needs of female fans.

“Women’s football is growing at an incredibly fast rate and we thought it appropriate to offer a W-League membership in recognition of that increasing support but also in support of the women who represent Sydney FC with pride in the W-League competition,” said Sydney FC CEO Tony Pignata.

“The W-League team is an important part of Sydney FC and this Membership is a sign of that. It has been designed to meet the specific needs of female fans and we hope the fans get behind the women and become Sydney FC W-League Members.”

The Sydney FC W-League Membership contains the following:
• Free entry to all Sydney FC Westfield W-League home games. This includes the double header at Allianz Stadium on 15 December, when the Sydney FC W-League team plays Perth Glory before the Sydney FC A-League team takes on Western Sydney in the Sydney Derby.
• Personalised Membership Card with W-League Fixture List
• W-League Members Lanyard
• Carry Bag
• Visor
• Lipgloss
• Meet and Greet with the W-League team after a selected match
• Weekly Member-only emails
• 10% off tickets for Sydney FC A-League home fixtures (max 4 per member per game)
• 10% off Sydney FC Merchandise purchased directly through the club or the Stadium Store.
• Plus all Sydney FC exclusive partner benefits (see Sydney FC website for all benefits)

The Sydney FC W-League Membership costs $70 or just $50 if you already have a Sydney FC A-League Membership.

The Sydney FC W-League team starts its 2012/13 campaign against Newcastle Jets at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday 21 October.

2012/13 Sydney FC Memberships are now on sale with Public Transport to and from the game from all over Sydney covered in the Membership price.

Purchase your 2012/13 Sydney FC Membership or call (02) 8314 5100.

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sydneyfc/news-display/Sydney-FC-launches-W-League-Membership/49428

Girls to get tips from the best W-League players

by Staff Writer


NSW Sport and Recreation will be hosting a girls soccer development clinic in partnership with the W-League during the upcoming school holidays.

The clinic will be held at Parramatta Stadium for girls aged eight to 14.

Coaches at the clinics will be current players from the W-League.

The two-day development clinic is targeted at girls who are already playing football and would like to enhance their skills for the next winter season.

"These clinics give young female players a chance to build on the essential skills of football," said Donna Olbourne from Sport and Recreation's Central Region.

"Not only will participants be given the opportunity to improve technique and gain an edge on the competition but they will learn the latest tips from some of the best female players in the country.

"After the success of the inaugural W-League competition this clinic provides great motivation for girls to pursue football."

The clinic will focus on skill development in passing, shooting, game play, defending, and playing as a team. Goalies are also encouraged to attend.



WANT TO GO?

WHAT: Girls Football Development Clinic

WHERE: Parramatta Stadium training ground, Gate F

WHEN: October 2 and 3, 9am-noon

COST: $40 for the two days

BOOKINGS: 13 13 02

http://parramatta-advertiser.whereilive.com.au/sport/story/soccer-girls-to-get-tips-from-the-best-w-league-players/

United kicks in youth for chase

October 1, 2012

Sports Writer, The Canberra Times
Chris Dutton

Canberra United coach Jitka Klimkova hopes injecting young and local talent into her squad will boost the team as it chases a second W-League title this season.

Klimkova has finalised her roster for United's title defence with five Canberra players filling the last five spots available.

The Canberra Times can reveal Christine Walters and Sally Rojahn will return after being in the squad last year while Grace Field, Catherine Brown and Sammy Wood have been given an opportunity to shine.

Walters had limited involvement in the undefeated campaign last year after she was hit with injury.

Rojahn was in the squad, but the team was performing so well that she was unable to break into the rotation.

But Klimkova has high hopes all five will be in contention for regular duties when the season begins in three weeks.

''I thought I would have had the squad finalised a bit earlier after the trials, but to be honest it was so tough that I had to see the girls again at a training session,'' Klimkova said.

''But I'm sure we picked the best of them. The best thing is they're all from Canberra, they're young girls and it shows it's great for the future of Canberra United as well.

''I wanted to see Chrissy again because she was injured [last season] and Sally didn't get any minutes … but at the trials they were two of the best.''

Canberra connections played a big part in the final five contracts.

If players were equal on ability, Klimkova opted for those who lived in the capital and played in the first grade competition. Field, Brown and Wood all play in Canberra.

Field and Brown flew to Adelaide last month to trial with South Australia's W-League team after being invited by the coach.

However, they both decided to take a chance to trial with United and have been rewarded with a spot in a championship-winning roster.

Field broke on to the W-League stage as a teenager for the 2010-11 season as part of Ray Junna's team. But she opted against backing up last season to instead focus on school.

Field is one of six United players in the Young Matildas training squad and Klimkova hopes her W-League experience will help her progress through the international ranks.

''Grace [Field] has showed me how 100 per cent committed she is,'' Klimkova said.

''She wants to learn and she wants to be better and that's exactly what we need in this team - talented players and give them a chance.

''They will prepare themselves for the W-League and the national team and I'm sure it can be helpful for Australia as well that we've picked the young girls for the squad.

''We want to play great, attractive and attacking football … that's the way we want to go but there's no pressure that we have to win [the title], but we want to win it.''

United's W-League campaign will begin with a grand final re-match against Brisbane Roar at McKellar Park on October 20.



Read more: http://www.canberratimes.com.au/sport/football/united-kicks-in-youth-for-chase-20120930-26thg.html#ixzz282e7g4MO

Lady Reds unveil international signings

Wednesday, 3 October 2012 4:23 PM

Adelaide United captain Abby Erceg has returned to the Westfield W-League for the 2012/13 season and headlines the trio of New Zealand internationals who have signed on for the Lady Reds’ upcoming campaign.

Erceg, who will skipper the side again, is joined by Holly Patterson and Sarah McLaughlin as the Lady Reds foreign contingent, with all three members of New Zealand’s 2012 London Olympic Squad.

Erceg has made 79 appearances for her country and is already a seasoned international at just 22 years of age, while 20-year-old creative forward McLaughlin has represented New Zealand 38 times.

Patterson, a lively winger, is the youngest of the trio at 18 years of age, but has already clocked up 18 caps for her country.

Lady Reds Head Coach Dave Edmondson welcomed back Erceg, as well as Adelaide United’s new international signings.

“Abby’s return was a critical signing after her performances last year and her influence as a leader,” he said.

“Whilst Abby will again look to sure things up at the back, Sarah and Holly will add some excitement at the other end of the field. Both are attacking players with a good eye for goal, the ability to take players on and create and score goals.”

“Abby was a stand out defender across the league last year and has returned from the Olympics in fantastic condition raring to go for the new season.”

“I am sure Sarah and Holly will be keen to continue the trend of Kiwi Internationals performing well for Adelaide United Lady Reds.”

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/adelaideunited/news-display/Lady-Reds-unveil-international-signings/49545

Girls get head start at soccer development clinic at Parramatta Stadium with Servet Uzunlar

General4 Oct 12 @ 05:59am by Caryn Metcalfe

Matilda Servet Uzunlar, a Western Sydney Wanderers recruit, shows the young hopefuls how to head a ball at the soccer development clinic at Parramatta Stadium yesterday. Picture: SIMON CHILLINGWORTH

THE girls' soccer competition will be fiercer next season, with 21 girls taking part in a NSW Sport and Recreation soccer development clinic this week.

Held at Parramatta Stadium yesterday and today, the girls received expert tips from current W-League players, including Servet Uzunlar, 23.

Uzunlar said she had been running similar programs for four or five years.

"The program is held over two days. On the first day we do most of the skills, like passing, volleying, dribbling, and may do a bit of one-on-one defending," she said.

"Day two is games, so three vs three or four vs four and make it bigger and all will play. It's about them having fun and learning. I don't want to make it constant drills."

The newly signed Western Sydney Wanderers W-League player said she also wanted to give the girls knowledge about women's soccer, quizzing them on the names and positions of the players in the Matildas team.

Pene Bonoras, 9, who plays for Parramatta City, said yesterday the clinic was teaching her lots of skills.

"I've been playing since I could walk," she said.

"I wanted to play because it's fun and I like scoring.

"I scored 11 goals in one game. I hope to learn how to score even more."

http://parramatta-advertiser.whereilive.com.au/sport/story/girls-get-head-start-at-soccer-development-clinic-at-parramatta-stadium-with-servet-uzunlar/

Perry set for two-sport weekends

Dual sporting international Ellyse Perry is preparing for a hectic mix-and-match summer which is likely to see her play both football and cricket on the same weekend.

Perry returned from Sri Lanka on Tuesday morning following Australia's four-run win over England in Sunday's World T20 cricket final and was due to resume training with her W-League club Sydney FC on Wednesday afternoon.

Sydney - which on Wednesday announced Matildas star Kyah Simon as its captain - expects to have Perry available for all but two of its 12 W-League regular season games.

The domestic T20 and one-day competitions - like the W-League - are conducted between October and January, inevitably causing fixture clashes with Perry's cricket team, New South Wales Breakers, and her new soccer team.

Asked if Perry could play both sports on the same weekend, Sydney FC coach Alen Stajcic said "that's a possibility".

"They (Breakers) tend to have a triple-header, they tend to play Friday, Saturday, Sunday, so it will just depend on which is the bigger game.

"But we've already mapped it out and she will be available for ten out of the 12 games at the moment.

"That's a pretty good scenario, any player can miss one or two games for any reason.

"She's committed to that and if anything else happens, we'll just play it by ear."

Perry had effectively been forced out of her former W-League team Canberra, club officials telling her she had to choose between the two sports because she could not always commit to soccer.

Several months later she came to a deal with Sydney FC, which allowed her to continue to play cricket as well.

Perry - who will play at either right or left back - and skipper Simon will be among eight Matildas in Sydney's W-League squad.

One of Sydney's other major recruits is 19-year-old Matildas forward Sam Kerr.

"I'd been in Perth for a while and I just wanted a new challenge and I thought Sydney was the place to do it," said Kerr, who has recently returned form an ACL injury.

New Zealand internationals Emma Kete, Hannah Bromley and Annalie Longo have been added to the squad, which lost some players to the new Western Sydney Wanderers.

With 12 teenagers in his squad of 20, Stajcic said his emphasis was on performances ahead of results.

He expected 2011-12 grand finalists Brisbane and Canberra would be up there again and said Perth had improved and Western Sydney would be strong.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-10-10/perry-set-for-two-sport-weekends/4306006?section=sport

Sydney to accommodate Perry schedule

Wednesday, 10 October 2012 6:45 PM

Sydney FC coach Alen Stajcic is looking forward to working with dual international Ellyse Perry at the Westfield W-League club.

Perry returned from Sri Lanka this week, where she helped Australia to victory in the World Twenty20 cricket final against England.

She will have to juggle her time between Sydney FC and her cricket team, NSW Breakers, but Stajcic is happy to accommodate Perry's busy schedule.

"There might be one or two games that she'll miss," Stajcic said.

"But apart from that she'll be available for all the games and most of the training sessions."

Perry left her former W-League club Canberra after being told to choose between football and cricket.

But Sydney FC have allowed her to continue to play both sports, with Stajcic speaking highly of Perry's contribution.

"She's a really committed person and hats off to her level of commitment," he said.

"To have that level of enthusiasm from a player is really great."

Matildas star Kyah Simon, 21, will captain a very young Sydney side this season, with 12 teenagers in the squad of 20.

But Stajcic insists that while some of his players might be young in age, they are not short of experience.

"We're just looking for a bright and energetic future," Stajcic said.

"That's the way of the modern world in women's football - that they're getting younger and younger and some of the players that are developing so quickly."

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/news-display/Sydney-to-accommodate-Perry-schedule/49984

Blackmores Back Young Sydney FC W-League Team Full Of Matildas

Wednesday, 10 October 2012 2:59 PM



Sydney FC W-League coach Alen Stajcic has unveiled a younger and exciting Sky Blues outfit, full of international experience and ready to regain their crown with the support of a major sponsor for the 2012/13 W-League season.

Blackmores, Australia’s leading natural health brand, has joined the Sydney FC W-League team, which boasts eight Australian internationals, three New Zealand Internationals and six players who have represented Australia at underage level (U17 and U20).

Leading the way will be Westfield Matilda’s Kyah Simon, Ellyse Perry, Sam Kerr, Caitlin Foord and Alanna Kennedy as well as Kiwi Internationals Annalie Longo, Hannah Bromley and Emma Kete.

Kyah Simon, who turned down approaches from Western Sydney to stay loyal to Sydney FC, will take over from Danielle Brogan as Team Captain after Brogan was unfortunately ruled out for the season after rupturing her ACL in pre season.

W-League coach Alen Stajcic described the team as exciting. “We’re thrilled with the team we have been able to put together for the 2012/13 season,” Stajcic said. “We have selected a younger team with pace, mobility and some of the most exciting players in Australian women’s football.

“Kyah will captain the team, which is a sign of the younger, more exciting squad we have selected. She takes over from Danielle Brogan, who was going to play a big part in the season until she unfortunately suffered the knee injury.

“We have been training well and we’re really looking forward to the season kick off against Newcastle on 21 October.”

The surge in corporate support enjoyed by Sydney FC has also spilled over into the W-League with Blackmores becoming shirt sponsors for the women’s team for the 2012/13 season.

Blackmores becomes the first company to invest money directly into the Sydney FC W-League team, a sign of the increased popularity of women’s football. The Blackmore’s logo will be proudly displayed on the front of the Sydney FC W-League and National Youth League strips.

“Blackmores is thrilled to be partnering with Sydney FC’s Women’s and Youth Leagues, and wish them the best of luck for the season ahead,” said Blackmores Director, Sales and Marketing, Jim Van Bruinessen.

“As Australia’s leading natural health brand, Blackmores understands the benefits of being more active. Through our sponsorship of the Blackmores W-League and Youth League we hope to inspire many more Australian Women and kids to give this fast-growing sport a try.”

Sydney FC Chief Executive Officer Tony Pignata welcomed Blackmores to Sydney FC and also wished the W-League team every success in the 2012/13 season.

“Sydney FC is grateful for the support of Blackmores with the W-League and National Youth League teams,” Pignata said. “We have received a lot of corporate support but for Blackmores to commit to helping our women’s team is a testament to the growth and popularity of women’s football.”

Sydney FC W-League squad:
Kyah Simon forward Westfield Matilda
Ellyse Perry defender Westfield Matilda
Caitlin Foord forward Westfield Matilda
Samantha Kerr forward Westfield Matilda
Renee Rollason defender Westfield Matilda
Alanna Kennedy midfielder Westfield Matilda
Teresa Polias midfielder Westfield Matilda
Nicola Bolger midfielder Westfield Matilda
Emma Kete forward New Zealand International
Hannah Bromley defender New Zealand International
Annalie Longo midfielder New Zealand International
Sian McLaren goalkeeper Westfield Young Matilda (U20s)
Brittany Whitfield forward Westfield Young Matilda (U20s)
Amy Harrison forward Australian U17 representative
Sham Khamis goalkeeper Australian U17 representative
Elizabeth Ralston defender Australian U17 representative
Megan McLaughlin midfielder Australian U17 representative
Chloe Logarzo forward
Larissa Crummer forward
Natalie Tobin midfielder

2012/13 Sydney FC Memberships are now on sale with Public Transport to and from the game from all over Sydney covered in the Membership price.

Purchase your 2012/13 Sydney FC Membership here or call (02) 8314 5100.

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sydneyfc/news-display/Blackmores-Back-Young-Sydney-FC-WLeague-Team-Full-Of-Matildas/49964

#SydneyFanChat Transcript with Sam Kerr & Caitlin Foord

Wednesday, 10 October 2012 4:40 PM



Sydney FC’s young W-League and Westfield Matilda players Samantha Kerr and Caitlin Foord hosted the Sky Blues live Twitter #SydneyFanChat today. During the hour we learnt what their favourite Justin Beiber pump up song was, the best part of being a Matilda and they would love women’s football to become more professional. Sam and Caitlin answered 37 questions during the chat, which was a great effort from the young girls.

This initiative has become a fortnightly engagement for Sky Blue Members and fans to interact with Sydney FC players, coaches and staff. In two weeks (Oct 24) we will be back with another current Sky Blues player!

Here is a transcript of the 37 questions, with Samantha Kerr and Caitlin Foord’s answers.

Andrew French: How do you think the season will go, will it be successful?
#SydneyFanChat Yep, I hope so if all goes to plan. We have a young and exciting team.

Nadia: Toughest player to defend against?
#SydneyFanChat Probably Cristiani from Brazil in Germany at the WCup in 2011

Nadia: How was it playing against @TobinHeath and@alexmorgan13?
#SydneyFanChat It was a good experience to play against world class players

Nadia: What is the best part of being being a Matilda? Funniest moment?
#SydneyFanChat Best part is travelling around the world with some of your best friends and playing football!

:): One player you want to score/defend against?
#SydneyFanChat Not 1 player. It would be great to score in the derby against WSW and some former @SydneyFC players - Caitlin

:): What's one thing you learned from#USAvAUS game?
#SydneyFanChat I learnt that we have to play as well as the USA to win the Olympics and a World Cup

:): Favourite Bieber song? Best pump up track?
#SydneyFanChat "Never Let You Go"- Sam "Beauty And Beat" - Caitlin

:): Did any of the #USWNT players give you girls any advice etc?
#SydneyFanChat Not advice, they let their feet do the talking.

:): If you could choose two international players to play in this year's #wleague who would it be? :)
#SydneyFanChat They would be @alexmorgan13and Marta.

Sport For Women: It seems @SydneyFC are doing more to promote @SydneyWFC this season. What can fans do to support you?
#SydneyFanChat Head down to the games and purchase a W-League Membership!

Sport For Women: If you could change one thing about women's football in Australia, what would it be?
#SydneyFanChat We'd love more money in the sport to help the girls become more professional.

Sport For Women: We're trying to find Australia's Top 100 Sportswomen of all time http:// Who would you nominate and why?
#SydneyFanChat Cathy Freeman because I love watching her race or Lydia Lassila!

Sydney FC Women: Cait & Sam: you have played together for @TheMatildas. How is it different playing on the same team at club level?
#SydneyFanChat There's not too much difference apart from the personnel and the colours.

Unstoppable.: Any superstition/pre-game rituals?
#SydneyFanChat I try to relax and not think about the game until it begins. We also play songs before the match

Josiah West: Career highlight so far?
#SydneyFanChat Winning the Best Young Player at the World Cup in 2011 - Caitlin

Ele Winston: How did you become the great players you are today?
#SydneyFanChat Dedication and hard work and by having no social life..

Josiah West: A more competitive question: Who do you think is the better player out of you two haha
#SydneyFanChat @samkerr1 has already said it's her!! And that she's better at FIFA!!

Kane Cassidy: Canberra United have been something else as of late, is there any particular way you'll be tackling games against them?
#SydneyFanChat Just the same as every other team. I think we have the players to do it this year.

Sydney FC Women: Sam, u have been with ur home club Perth Glory since #wleague started. What do u look forward to most playing with SFC?
#SydneyFanChat Playing with a wide range of talented players and the challenge of a new team and new surroundings.

Sydney FC Women: Caitlin, u are a #SkyBlue superstar & have significant technical abilities. What aspects of your game do u wish to improve?
#SydneyFanChat Thanks, I want to improve my finishing.

Kathy Phetrasi: What was it like playing up against the uswnt & getting to swap jerseys with alex morgan?
#SydneyFanChat It was very tough against them and having to run everywhere because they're so fit. Was cool to get jersey.

Jordan Lo Russo: What do you girls think can be done to promote the status of women's football in Oz?
#SydneyFanChat Start from the grass roots and promote within schools. Televise all games rather than just one each week.

Danny + Channy: Just wanna say good luck in the upcoming W-league season
#SydneyFanChat Thanks guys - hope we see you at the games!

Savannah Liebrecht: How did you girls first get into W-League? Advice for a girl who wants to do the same? :) x
#SydneyFanChat NTC program and participate in national tournaments.

Unstoppable.: Who would rather be Christine Sinclair or Abby Wambach?
#SydneyFanChat Abby Wambach but I'm kinda happy being myself!! - Sam

Sport For Women: Great answers! But what about a footballer?
#SydneyFanChat Cheryl Salisbury

Nichole: How do you balance training/games / work and a healthy family/social life and how important is that family/ friend support
#SydneyFanChat Good to have family takes mind off football – Sam. I'm doing HSC so easier to manage time - Caitlin

Kathy Phetrasi: Other than being on our national soccer team, what is another dream you'd like to archive?
#SydneyFanChat I would like to have 4 kids -Sam

John Greco: Do you think W-League would benefit from a marquee player like ADP? Brazil's Marta perhaps?
#SydneyFanChat Yes it would be great to see her in our league. It would be amazing.

Andrew French: Caitlin - how was winning the young player award at the world cup?
#SydneyFanChat It was a bit of a surprise, but it was really good feeling.

s???: Sam - what influenced your decision to come to SFC. Caitlin - is Sam your new Teigen (bff)?
#SydneyFanChat After my knee reconstruction it was a new challenge – Sam. They are both my friends - Caitlin

Ed Rue: Any love for your USA supporters? New Jersey to be more specific!
#SydneyFanChat Yeah, love for any of our fans! How you going??

Nadia: What would being crowned World Champs and Olympic Gold Medalists mean to you both?
#SydneyFanChat That would be the pinnacle of football for us so it would be fantastic and probably the best feeling ever

:): How have players like @swalshy9 @Bubs_11influenced you as an athlete? What's the best advice they've given you both?
#SydneyFanChat They've relaxed us and told us to play our own game which is great and stood us in good stead

Ele Winston: Where do yuo get the headbands from?? been looking for the everywhere
#SydneyFanChat We think the girls who wear the Nike ones get them from the USA

Aroon Clansey: Would you agree that kiwis are better than aussies hahahahaha
#SydneyFanChat I highly disagree with that!! - Sam

Diane (DeeG): Would both of you consider playing in the U.S. when a new professional league starts? Or would you like to play in Europe?
#SydneyFanChat We would like to play in both at some point so yes it would be great.

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sydneyfc/news-display/SydneyFanChat-Transcript-with-Sam-Kerr--Caitlin-Foord/49976

Battle heats up for W-League team spots

By JOSH LEESON Oct. 12, 2012, 4 a.m.
Wayne O'Sullivan.

.NEWCASTLE Jets W-League coach Wayne O'Sullivan has challenged his players to demand selection in round one with a strong performance tonight against the Herald Women's Premier League Select side.

The match at Wanderers Oval from 6pm will be the Jets' final trial before their W-League season opener against Sydney FC on October 21 at Leichhardt Oval.

The WPL side will be coached by championship-winning Adamstown mentor Shelley Youman and comprises players from Rosebud, Merewether United, Charlestown City Blues and Football Mid North Coast.

Competition for spots is healthy in the Jets camp after two modified trials against the Sky Blues, a 4-3 loss and 2-all draw, and intraclub matches.

"We had an internal game last night among ourselves which was very competitive and it gave us another look at the final pieces and who is going to play where and who wants to be the first in line," O'Sullivan said yesterday.

"So tomorrow night is very much about doing the right things and people showing they're ready.

"The final pieces will go into place next week, so I really want people to put their hand up and say, 'I wanna start first round'."

All bar two of the 19-woman squad will be available tonight.

Madeline Searl (strained knee) and Mikaela Howell (thigh strain) will be rested to overcome injuries, but the remainder of the squad is expected to see game time.

Tonight's trial will also give local fans their first glimpse at US imports Tori Huster, Tiffany Boshers and Angela Salem.

Salem and Huster will play in the midfield and Boshers is expected to push further forward on the left wing.

"They've been great for the group from a cultural point of view," O'Sullivan said.
The imports were all leaders on the field and brought experience which had showed in training, he said.

http://www.theherald.com.au/story/392570/battle-heats-up-for-w-league-team-spots/?cs=306

Slatyer calls time on career

Monday, 8 October 2012 12:50 PM



Westfield Matildas veteran Thea Slatyer has decided to call an end to her remarkable 14-year club and international career.

With 51 A-Internationals to her name, including three goals, Slatyer helped define a key transition period in the sport, which culminated in captaining the successful Westfield Matildas in two matches at the 2010 AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

As a dominating and often imposing defender Slatyer was a fierce competitor with incredible strength and determination whenever she wore the green and gold.

A key member in the Westfield Matildas' groundbreaking performances at the 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup Slatyer has been a significant influence both on and off the field in growing the reputation and profile of the team.

With her striking looks and unflinching attitude, Slatyer caught the eye of many admirers which saw her appear in a range of editorial and profile pieces including in Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan and Madison magazines.

Slatyer’s career highlight was playing in the 2004 Athens Olympics.

With a playing career that saw Slatyer play for clubs including Canberra United, Sydney FC, Newcastle Jets and overseas with Washington Freedom.

Slatyer played her final three matches earlier this year against World Champions Japan following two matches against New Zealand, where she scored a late equaliser to keep intact the Westfield Matildas 18-year undefeated record against their trans-Tasman rivals.

It was following the Japan match that Slatyer decided to hang up her boots for good. A decision that sees one of the greats of the women’s game leave a wonderful legacy for the sport.

Outside of football Slatyer has always lead an intrepid life, including working as an industrial rope access technician on skyscrapers and in the mines and offshore oil rigs, an aerospace Non Destructive Testing technician, as a mounted security officer for the Australian Turf Club, personal private bodyguard and a DJ.

Although being offered both a new contract to continue playing for the Westfield Matildas and interest from Chelsea and Liverpool in the Women’s Premier League in England, Thea has decided to pursue a different course away from football.

"Retiring from football was something I had been planning at the start of this year and the international friendly against Japan was to be my last game," Slatyer said.

"Although I did not want to make it more emotional for myself than it already was, a few of my teammates knew this was likely to be the last time I put on the green and gold and I officially retired from the Matildas following the Tokyo tour in July.

"The national team has played a monumental role in my life for the past decade and it has taken me places and given me friends that I will have forever. I am now focussing on studying engineering, horse riding and generally just kicking ass in whatever life brings.

"The most important thing I've learned from my experiences in the Matildas is to take advantage of every opportunity you are presented with, trust yourself and never ever give up."

Westfield Matildas coach Tom Sermanni, who coached Slatyer for the majority of her international career, knows that Slatyer has left an indelible mark on the Australian national team.

“Thea is a winner, a warrior and a fierce competitor. She was uncompromising in her approach and attitude and at the peak of her career was one of the most intimidating defenders in women's football," Sermanni said.

"These qualities were particularly in evidence when facing high pedigree opponents.

“Like several of our key players she was blighted by a series of serious knee injuries that curtailed her number of international appearances and career longevity.

"Despite this, her ability to recover from injury in record time highlighted her determination, professionalism and her desire to represent her country.

“Thea was without question of our most important players over the past eight years.”

Long-time friend and Westfield Matildas teammate Sarah Walsh grew up playing with Slatyer continued the praise.

“I played with Thea all the way back during a time when I was bigger than her,” Walsh said.

“I feel privileged to have been on her football journey from the start, she has had some very big moments for the Matilda's including our game against Norway at the 2007 World Cup being one that really showed what a talented and powerful player she is.”

Matildas captain Melissa Barbieri continued the praise for the retiring star.

“Strong, formidable, relentless determination and an experienced and level head in the back line is how Thea Slatyer will be remembered,” Barbieri said.

“Thea always helped teammates through tough times whilst she herself was battling through injuries.

“In her 10 years since debuting for the Matildas, T has helped shape the ‘Never Say Die’ attitude we go by today, not only on the field but off it as well, always trying to better herself in more ways than just football. It wouldn't have surprised me if she might one day fly into camp on a jet plane. Our own Superwoman!

Slatyer is currently spending her time between her house in Sydney and working as an industrial rope access technician in the mines Western Australia.

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/news-display/Slatyer-calls-time-on-career/49827

Jets add US stars to boost strikeforce

DateOctober 14, 2012
Alex Rowe

JETS W-League coach Wayne O'Sullivan is hoping the experience and professionalism his three new American signings have to offer will help deliver finals football to the club after Newcastle agonisingly missed out on the top four last season.

The Jets have added six new players to their squad for next week's start to the W-League against Sydney, including Tori Huster and Angela Salem from the Women's Premier Soccer League's Western New York Flash. Tiffany Boshers also arrives at the club from the WPSL's Chicago Breeze.

''Tori Huster and Angela Salem are both from Western New York and they played with Emily van Egmond, who managed to convince them to come back and play in Australia, which we're thrilled about,'' O'Sullivan said.

Huster, Salem and van Egmond will bring with them a winning mentality after being an integral part of the Flash side that claimed the Elite Championship in the US.

The new attacking threat the new signings bring will no doubt be felt by rival W-League sides with Huster to start as an attacking midfielder, Salem in midfield and Boshers up front.

With van Egmond likely to start in a more attacking midfielder role this season, Jets fans will be licking their lips at the goal-fest that could transpire and if Friday night's pre-season match was anything to go by, goals are on the cards after Newcastle put six past a Women's Premier League Select side with van Egmond bagging four in the rout. ''We were a little bit slow to get started, but after the break we switched gear and played the football that we hoped for,'' O'Sullivan said.

Their W-League opening match, against Sydney on October 21, will be a much taller order. ''Sydney are always there or thereabouts, they are always a strong team and it will be a good challenge for us and will enable us to gauge where we're placed against leading competition,'' O'Sullivan said.



Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/sport/football/jets-add-us-stars-to-boost-strikeforce-20121013-27jq1.html#ixzz29BNj576e

Westfield W-League 2012/13 season launched

Tuesday, 16 October 2012 2:52 PM



Football Federation Australia, and major sponsor Westfield, today officially launched the Westfield W-League 2012/13 Season with star players including Westfield Matildas Ellyse Perry, Kyah Simon and Stephanie Catley, high-profile fans and media at an exclusive event on Sydney’s Jones Bay Wharf.

Now in its fifth season, the Westfield W-League is set to be bigger and better than ever before with the addition of a new team - Western Sydney Wanderers FC - two extra regular season rounds and some of the world’s best footballers taking to the pitch in stadiums across the country this summer.

“The Westfield W-League is one of, if not, the world’s premier women’s football competition and this season is set to the best one yet,” Head of W-League Damien De Bohun said.

“For me, the beauty of this league is that it creates new heroes each season. It is also the breeding ground for the Westfield Matildas – one of Australia’s most successful sporting teams.

“With the Westfield Matildas ranked 9th in the world, Champions of Asia, and with every player from the Westfield Matildas squad playing in the Westfield W-League this year, there has never been a better opportunity for Australians to witness world class football in their own backyard.

“The local grounds at which the Westfield W-League is played provide a great family-friendly atmosphere, and tickets can be purchased at the gate.”

For all the action from today’s Westfield W-League 2012/13 Season Launch visit www.w-league.com.au or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

The Westfield W-League action kicks off this weekend with a blockbuster first round featuring a Grand Final rematch between Canberra United and Brisbane Roar at Canberra’s McKellar Park on Saturday, 20th October (kick-off 200pm) before culminating with the Westfield W-League 2013 Grand Final on the Australia Day weekend - Sunday, 27th January.

Other key dates and features of the Westfield W-League 2012/13 season to watch out for include (all times indicated below are stated as local times):

- A new, viewer and family-friendly one-hour Match of the Day highlights package broadcast nationally each Saturday by the Westfield W-League’s broadcast partner, The ABC.

- Family-friendly AM fixtures including first AM match of the season to be played at Intiga Stadium, Inglewood in Perth (Perth Glory vs. Melbourne Victory – 21st October @1030am)

- First inter-city derby in Westfield W-League history with Sydney FC taking on Western Sydney Wanderers FC at Leichardt Oval (27th October @200pm)

- First Newcastle Jets home match against defending champions Canberra United at the Hunter’s Westfield W-League home, Wanderers Oval in Broadmeadow (27th October @200pm)

- The historic first Western Sydney Wanderers FC home match at Campbelltown Stadium against Perth Glory (3rd November @ 200pm)

- 2012 defeated Grand Finalists’, Brisbane Roar, first home match at Cleveland Showgrounds (3rd November @ 300pm)

- Sydney FC to play Perth Glory as the curtain raiser to Sydney FC’s first Hyundai A-League inter-city home derby at Allianz Stadium (15/12 @ 500pm)

“It’s a really exciting time to be playing in the Westfield W-League this season and I can’t wait to strap on the boots this weekend and hopefully bag a few goals for Sydney FC,” Westfield Matildas and Sydney FC captain Kyah Simon said.

“This season is going to be the toughest, and most even yet, with world-class talent on the books of all eight clubs.

"There will be no easy games this year and I think fans at the grounds and watching on TV are in for a treat. Every team will certainly have to be at their best each week if they are going to have any chance of being there come Grand Final Day on January 27.”

For the full Westfield W-League 2012/13 season draw, ticket information and schedule of televised matches visit www.w-league.com.au.

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/news-display/Westfield-W-League-2012-13-season-launched/50454

W-League launches with PR campaign focus on players’ skills not ‘girls in bikinis’


October 16, 2012
W-League launches with PR campaign focus on players’ skills not ‘girls in bikinis’

Author
Daniel Abelsohn

The A-League has made a bright start to Season 8 and fans can get an extra footy fix from this weekend, with the fifth season of the W-League having its official launch Tuesday.

With reports earlier this year suggesting many A-League clubs were tempted to shut down the W-League due to costs, and the ABC deciding to show a one hour highlights package each week instead of live coverage, the competition is on shifting ground.

Football Federation Australia has reacted by increasing its marketing spend on the competition, using a grant to increase female involvement, and as part of that strategy it brought on board a new Public Relations agency, Boxing Clever.

With 100,000 registered female football players in Australia, a number which doesn’t include the girls playing at school and university, Boxing Clever recognises the biggest challenge facing the W-League is engaging the women who play football as well as their friends and families, and converting them into spectators and fans of the league.

While reluctant to discuss direct strategies, Boxing Clever Director Anne Wickham said there would be a focus on highlighting the skill and physical attributes of the game and players, rather than glamourising the women.

“A lot of women’s sport try to turn their athletes into models and glamourise them and while there is a place for magazine cover style photo shoots, for us that would be part of packaging the overall story. It wouldn’t be a pitch about getting someone in a bikini,” Wickham tells Sports Business Insider.

Senior Consultant at Boxing Clever Chris Williams added that ‘girls in bikinis’ was not something their target market necessarily wanted to see.

“That (the bikini shoots) won’t happen with us,” says Williams. “These athletes are the perfect role models for young women growing up. They’re fit, healthy and intelligent, bloody good at what they do and they have lots of string in their bow.

“Our target audience want to be able to go and watch their role models and then go try and emulate what they do on the football pitch. That’s how the W-League and the Matildas are positioned and that’s where our ideas will stem from.”

Another key aspect of the W-League will be its family friendly environment. Games will be played at suburban grounds such as Leichhardt Oval inSydneyandWembleyParkinMelbourne, something that will be an attractive option for young families and others who don’t want the hassle and expense of going to a major stadium.

While in the past there has been a huge challenge in getting people interested in women’s sport, Williams believes the recent success of Australian female athletes at events such as the Olympic Games and Twenty20 World Cup as well as the success of the Matildas, shows that the old stereotypes and challenges of the past are being broken down.

“For Aussies we love a winner and that success is starting to breed more coverage. People are seeing female athletes as we’re seeing them – athletes first, females second and good at their sport,” Williams says.

The success of the Matildas is testament to the strength of the W-League, with all members of the squad playing in the local competition. The squad is made up of a mix of experienced and youth players, including eight teenagers, which Wickham explains provides some amazing stories.

“These are women at the beginning of their careers as well as a number of very experienced players who are possibly looking to retire but are very keen to continue to be involved in the sport. There is a really nice strong culture and part of our job is certainly getting those messages out there,” says Williams.

The success of the Matildas and the rising profile of the W-League will hopefully lead to more commercial opportunities for female athletes. While those opportunities have traditionally favoured male athletes, Wickham believes there is a huge opportunity for advertisers to align themselves with athletes who represent healthy pursuits and values.

In terms of promoting the W-League competition, the focus will be on using a broad mix of players in a bid to encourage people to know who their local team is and to consider supporting them.

A wide range of media will also be used in a bid to broaden the league’s audience. With many women being big decision makers in households and large consumers of media, lifestyle media as well as traditional sports media have been approached.

“Our strategy is to engage lots of people, some of whom know everything about football and the league, and others who are lifestyle journalists and who haven’t had much exposure,” Wickham says.

With kick off just days away, the team at Boxing Clever is positive about the season ahead.

“The response we have had with the media has been huge, it’s been a great project for us to work on and the FFA has been a great organisation to work with,” Williams says. “And at the end of the day it is not a tough sell.”

http://sportsbusinessinsider.com.au/news/category/sponsorship-and-marketing/w-league-launches-with-pr-campaign-focus-on-players-skills-not-girls-in-bikinis/

Lady Reds squad unveiled at Hindmarsh Stadium

Tuesday, 16 October 2012 12:56 PM



The Lady Reds squad was unveiled on Friday night at half time of Adelaide United’s 1-0 win over Western Sydney Wanderers at Hindmarsh Stadium.

The Lady Reds squad for the 2012/13 Westfield W-League season will boast three high-quality Kiwi internationals, including returning skipper Abby Erceg, as well as Sarah McLaughlin and Holly Patterson, with all three a part of New Zealand’s 2012 London Olympic Squad.

Returning from last year’s squad are local stars Kristi Harvey, Ruth Wallace, Rachael Quigley, Marijana Rajcic, Grace Henry, Emma Checker and Georgia Macri while coach Dave Edmondson also added promising SA talent with the additions of Cassandra Tsoumbris, Elise Whorlow, Jenna McCormick, Jessica Waterhouse, Laura Johns and reserve keeper Kelly Barltrop.

Coming into the squad from interstate is Alex Natoli, Jessie Wharepouri, Ann Mayo and Lorena Maggio.

Edmondson hinted the 2012/13 squad is more balanced than in previous years and one that is keen to see the Lady Reds return to the top half of the table.

“It’s a much more well-rounded squad than last year,” he said.

“There are more options all round the field and a couple more exciting players further up the field this season. Also, it’s a young squad who are eager to learn and eager to turn around Adelaide's fortunes.”

“One of the major goals is to play the style and kind of football that we want to and that we have been training to play for the last year with the NTC and for the last couple of months with the W-League squad. That is, we want to play an exciting style of football based on bravery in possession and attacking flair.”

Adelaide United Westfield W-League Squad 2012/13
1. Kristi HARVEY, 2. Ruth WALLACE, 3. Alex NATOLI, 4. Jessie WHAREPOURI, 5. Abby ERCEG (Captain), 6. Cassandra TSOUMBRIS, 7. Racheal QUIGLEY, 8. Sarah McLAUGHLIN, 9. Marijana RAJCIC, 10. Jenna MCCORMICK, 11. Grace HENRY, 12. Elise WHORLOW, 13. Ann MAYO, 14. Lorena MAGGIO, 15. Emma CHECKER, 16. Jessica WATERHOUSE, 17. Laura JOHNS, 18. Georgia MACRI, 19. Holly PATTERSON, 20. Kelly BARLTROP

Coach: Dave Edmondson
Assistant Coach: Jono Ruse
Goalkeeper Coach: Joe Veringer

Opening game: Adelaide United v Western Sydney Wanderers
Saturday 20 October 2012
2pm – Burton Park, Waterloo Corner Road, BURTON
Admission: $5 Adults, $2 Concession/U16

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/adelaideunited/news-display/Lady-Reds-squad-unveiled-at-Hindmarsh-Stadium/50464

W-League draw revealed

Tuesday, 18 September 2012 12:18 PM

Brisbane Roar will kick off the Westfield W-League 2012/13 season with a highly-anticipated Grand Final re-match against Canberra United at McKellar Park in four weeks time.

The official draw, released today by Football Federation Australia today, has 12 rounds of competition with the finals series set to commence in mid-January and this year includes a new team in Western Sydney Wanderers.

“It’s been a long off-season but we’re ready to get back in the swing of things,” said Brisbane Roar player Brooke Spence.

“Canberra in round one is going to be extremely tough, they’re a strong team but we’re looking forward to the challenge.”

This season, the Roar will split their home games across three different Brisbane venues – Cleveland Showgrounds, AJ Kelly Park at Kippa-Ring and Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre at Nathan.

Brisbane’s first home game sees them face long-time Westfield W-League rivals Sydney FC for the first time since the last season’s fiery semi-final clash on Saturday, November 3 at Cleveland.

“I think Sydney are going to have a point to prove after the semi-final last year,” Spence said.

“It’ll have some feeling to it but we’re looking forward to each and every game of the season.”

New Head Coach Belinda Wilson is expected to confirm her squad over the next week with player information to be available on the Brisbane Roar website once finalised.

Click here for the official Westfield W-League 2012/13 season draw.

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/brisbaneroar/news-display/WLeague-draw-revealed/49178

Kyah Simon Launches 2012/13 W-League

Tuesday, 16 October 2012 5:34 PM



Sydney FC W-League captain Kyah Simon launched the 2012/13 Westfield W-League determined to continue the form in front of goal she showed in the USA that has her tagged as one of the best strikers in women’s football.

An excited Simon will lead the Sky Blues into battle for the 2012/13 W-League, which she described as the most even in the history of the competition.

“It’s a really exciting time to be playing in the Westfield W-League this season and I can’t wait to strap on the boots this weekend and hopefully bag a few goals for Sydney FC,” Simon said.

“This season is going to be the toughest, and most even yet, with world-class talent on the books of all eight clubs.

“There will be no easy games this year and I think fans at the grounds and watching on TV are in for a treat. Every team will certainly have to be at their best each week if they are going to have any chance of being there come Grand Final Day on January 27.”

Simon was joined by Sky Blues and Matilda team mate Ellyse Perry at the exclusive launch event on Sydney’s Jones Bay Wharf.

Now in its fifth season, the Westfield W-League is set to be bigger and better than ever before with the addition of a new team - Western Sydney Wanderers FC - two extra regular season rounds and some of the world’s best footballers taking to the pitch in stadiums across the country this summer.

“The Westfield W-League is one of, if not, the world’s premier women’s football competition and this season is set to the best one yet,” said Head of W-League Damien De Bohun.

“For me, the beauty of this league is that it creates new heroes each season. It is also the breeding ground for the Westfield Matildas – one of Australia’s most successful sporting teams.

“With the Westfield Matildas ranked 9th in the world, Champions of Asia, and with every player from the Westfield Matildas squad playing in the Westfield W-League this year, there has never been a better opportunity for Australians to witness world class football in their own backyard.

“The local grounds at which the Westfield W-League is played provide a great family-friendly atmosphere, and tickets can be purchased at the gate.”

The Westfield W-League action kicks off this weekend with a blockbuster first round featuring a Grand Final rematch between Canberra United and Brisbane Roar at Canberra’s McKellar Park on Saturday, 20th October (kick-off 200pm) before culminating with the Westfield W-League 2013 Grand Final on the Australia Day weekend - Sunday, 27th January.

Other key dates and features of the Westfield W-League 2012/13 season to watch out for include (all times indicated below are stated as local times):

A new, viewer and family-friendly one-hour Match of the Day highlights package broadcast nationally each Saturday by the Westfield W-League’s broadcast partner, The ABC.

Family-friendly AM fixtures including first AM match of the season to be played at Intiga Stadium, Inglewood in Perth (Perth Glory vs. Melbourne Victory – 21st October @1030am)

First inter-city derby in Westfield W-League history with Sydney FC taking on Western Sydney Wanderers FC at Leichardt Oval (27th October @200pm)

First Newcastle Jets home match against defending champions Canberra United at the Hunter’s Westfield W-League home, Wanderers Oval in Broadmeadow (27th October @200pm)

The historic first Western Sydney Wanderers FC home match at Campbelltown Stadium against Perth Glory (3rd November @ 200pm)

2012 defeated Grand Finalists’, Brisbane Roar, first home match at Cleveland Showgrounds (3rd November @ 300pm)

Sydney FC to play Perth Glory as the curtain raiser to Sydney FC’s first Hyundai A-League inter-city home derby at Allianz Stadium (15/12 @ 500pm)

2012/13 Sydney FC Memberships are now on sale with Public Transport to and from the game from all over Sydney covered in the Membership price.

Purchase your 2012/13 Sydney FC Membership or call (02) 8314 5100.

http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sydneyfc/news-display/Kyah-Simon-Launches-201213-WLeague/50463