Perth Glory have further strengthened their Liberty A-League squad ahead of the upcoming season with the arrival of Philippines international Jessika Cowart.
Cowart makes the move to Perth after starting in each of the Philippines’ three games at this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, including their historic 1-0 victory over New Zealand in Wellington.
The 23-year-old previously played at US collegiate level for the University of Washington Huskies, between 2017 and 2021 before jetting over to Europe to play for Turkish side Caykur Rizespor and Swedish outfit IFK Kalmar.
Cowart – who can play as both a centre-back and holding midfielder – said she’s looking forward to the new challenge Down Under, where former Philippines boss Alen Stajcic is now head coach of Glory’s Isuzu UTE A-League team.
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“After multiple conversations with the coaching staff, I was impressed with their commitment not only to us as players on the field, but also as people off the field and that is a big reason why I signed for Glory,” Cowart said.
“I am highly impressed by the environment that has been built and it’s clear to me that this is a top organisation and I’m honoured to be a part of it.
“The A-League is growing fast and furious and is a very competitive league.
“I hope to not only represent Perth well throughout the season, but also to help bring home a championship.”
Glory coach Alex Epakis worked alongside Cowart during his time with the Filipinas at the World Cup and feels that she will be a valuable addition to his squad this season.
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“Jess was a player who stood out to me during my time with the Philippines national team at the Women’s World Cup,” he said.
“She comes to us after a great personal experience from that World Cup campaign and past exposure to some strong competition from her recent time playing in the Swedish top division.
“Jess has a really strong technical skill-set which will allow us to build up and start our attacks from deep areas and help us be the type of attacking team we want to be.
“She is a versatile player who can play across midfield and defence and has a great tactical understanding of the game.
“Moreover, her character and energy is very infectious and I have no doubt she will be a strong and positive personality within the group this season.”
Perth open their Liberty A-League campaign against Western United on Saturday October 14 at Macedonia Park.
