Tara Murray
The pieces are starting to come together for Western United ahead of its first A-League Women’s season.
The club has announced its first three signings ahead of the season, which kicks off in November.
Alana Cerne was announced as United’s first signing.
Born and bred in the west, Cerne has developed rapidly in the Victorian National Premier League system and has become a star player in Calder United’s senior women’s side.
Cerne said this was another step in achieving her football dreams. She said she was looking to inspire other girls in the west to follow their dreams.
“To be the first player to sign for Western United in the A-League Women is just unbelievable,” she said.
“I’ve been aspiring to be a professional footballer for a long time, and to finally have it all come true is just awesome.”
“I’d love to be a good role model for younger girls, to help them reach their goals is my number one priority.”
Cerne can play multiple positions including centre-back, full-back and central midfield.
United coach Mark Torcaso said he was eager to see what Cerne can do in the A-League. He has already worked with her at Calder United and through Western United’s development program.
“I’m thrilled for Alana that she has become our first signing,” he said.
“As a club, this signing is a true representation of our pathway for young girls. Alana has been a standout player through the junior ranks in the west, and now she has earned her spot in an A-League Women side.
“To have our first player signed is an historic moment for the club as we continue to build towards our first ever match.”
American attacker Hannah Keane is making the trip down under.
The 29-year-old hails from Sacramento and arrives with great pedigree in Europe, having played in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and top divisions in Germany, Portugal and Spain.
Keane said she feels privileged to be a part of history and is eager to get to work and create something special on the pitch.
“I feel honoured,” she said. “I’ve been following Western’s progress as a club and I really appreciate the work they’ve put in to give young women a pathway in professional soccer.
“I’ve always wanted to be a part of something like this and getting this opportunity means a lot to me.
“I’m extremely excited. I’m ready to learn new things and I cannot wait for the season to start and for all the hard work by the supporters, club and players to pay off.”
Rising Matildas star Kahli Johnson is heading out west, signing on the eve of the 2022 FIFA under-20 Women’s World Cup.
Johnson said she is delighted to be part of history in the green and black.
“I’m really excited by this opportunity to join the first ever women’s team at Western United,” she said.
“It’s been a big past year for me and I’m confident that Western United will help continue my development on and off the pitch.
“I can’t wait to get started, and to hopefully create something special at the Club,” Johnson said.
Johnson was a player Torcaso identified early as one he wanted to add to the squad, excited about her potential for the future as well as her immediate quality.
Johnson has represented Australia at youth level in each calendar year since 2018 from when she was just 14 years old.
