Tara Murray
Five Calder United players have been named train-on players for Western United’s inaugural women’s side.
United last week announced their seven train-on partners for this season, with the players to join the A-League squad twice a week throughout the season.
Coach Mark Torcaso said he was really pleased to have the seven girls as part of the program this season.
“They are all extremely gifted young players with bright futures and we want to make sure that they have every opportunity to show their quality at the highest possible level.
“Each of these girls will be vital in helping to drive the high standards throughout the squad. While they may not be playing matches immediately, I will be looking for them to work hard and put themselves in a position to seize any opportunities that may arise.”
Most of the train-on players have been playing in the National Premier League Women’s competition this year.
Ava Groba who has been at Calder United since its inception, scored eight goals in all competitions in her first full year as a senior player this year.
Montanna Mathews made her senior NPLW debut for Calder United, playing in every match for Calder United as the side clinched premiership, championship and NIKE F.C.Cup honours.
Elle Talevski also made her first senior NPLW appearance with Calder this year and remained a permanent fixture in the senior squad, as well as the under-19’s side.
Lara El-Hayek is a young goalkeeper who will continue her development, working with the likes of Hillary Beall and Alyssa Dall’Oste.
After making her senior debut and scoring her first goal in 2022, Tiarna Stella will remain with the group while she rehabilitates an ACL injury.
Akeisha Sandhu, who has been part of the Western United Women’s Development Squad, while starring as South Melbourne’s captain in NPLW and Bella Sewards round out the train on players.
