Three attacking players have joined Western United’s inaugural A-League Women’s side.
Stacey Papadopoulos, Raquel Deralas and Harriet Withers have all been key players for Calder United in recent years, and have contributed to National Premier League Women’s trebles in 2019 and 2022.
Developed under Western United head coach Mark Torcaso, who is also Calder United’s coach, during her junior career, Papadopoulos said moving up to the A-League alongside the coach was special.
“I’ve known Mark since I was about 14 or 15 and have been coached by him from that age until now so it’s crazy how far we’ve come,” she said.
“He’s a super passionate guy and we’ve had a pretty cool journey over the years. He’s showed a lot of faith in me as a player and it’s pretty special to be a part of this with him as well.”
Withers is set to bring two seasons of A-League experience to the team.
“I’m hoping to help guide and motivate the girls this season, both on and off the pitch. I want to make sure the girls are showing and giving everything I know they are capable of,” she said.
“And personally, I hope to hit the back of the net as much as possible and make it a season to remember for everyone. Green and Black will look good at the top.”
Youngest of the three players, Deralas, 20, and has signed a scholarship contract with the club.
“To be given the opportunity as a young player to continue my development and quality and experienced players is a life-changing opportunity and I’m excited for the next step in my football journey and what lies ahead,” Deralas said.
Torcaso said fans should be excited about the new talent the three plays will bring to the team.
“Mixing in Harriet’s experience and Stacey and Raquel as first-time A-League players with all of their attacking talents is going to be really exciting for our team this season,” he said.
“Their speed, skill, finishing ability and work ethic in the final third will be a big boost to our attacking options and I look forward to seeing them continue to develop amongst the group.”
Withers, Papadopoulos and Deralas are the club’s 16th, 17th and 18th signings.
