American forward Catherine Zimmerman is headed back to the United States after two seasons at Western United, the Ninja A-League club confirmed.
A two-time A-Leagues champion at Melbourne Victory, Zimmerman scored 21 goals in 61 appearances across five seasons in Australia – three at Victory, two at Western – and after claiming Western’s Player of the Season award in 2024-25, has called time on her days Down Under to pursue an opportunity in her homeland.
TRANSFER LATEST: Sydney FC announce eight-player exodus incl. Matildas veteran, three keepers & GF hero
MAJOR COUP: Wellington Phoenix make statement with signing of decorated international midfielder
Zimmerman delivered a heartfelt message to the club as her departure was confirmed.
“Reflecting on my two seasons at Western, I’m first and foremost proud of the team and so appreciative of the efforts everyone put in day in, day out,” Zimmerman said.
“Although there’s been highs and lows during both seasons, I’m thankful I got to play for this club and I’m especially thankful for all the memories on and off the field with my teammates, who have become some of my best friends.
“I’d like to thank my teammates, coaches, medical staff and technical staff for all of their continuous efforts – they always go above and beyond for the players and I’m so appreciative of that.
“Thank you, Western United, and good luck in the coming seasons.”
2025-26 TRANSFER CENTRE: Your club’s ins/outs
YOUNG MATILDAS: Roar quartet headline squad that ‘speaks to the strength of our domestic network’
Zimmerman is the second confirmed departure from Western in the current off-season, joining Matildas goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln (Brisbane Roar) in bidding farewell to the club.
Western have re-signed Julia Sardo, Claudia Mihocic and Kiara De Domizio as head coach Kat Smith continues to shape the playing squad ahead of the Ninja A-League 2025-26 campaign.
Western United general manager of football Mal Impiombato says it’s “bittersweet” to bid Zimmerman farewell after her two seasons in Green and Black.
“Zim has been such an incredible contributor to this competition over a number of years and it is a bittersweet feeling to say goodbye,” Impiombato said.
“She has left a significant mark on our club over the past two seasons both with her accomplishments on the pitch and her impact on the culture and values of our program.
“We are indebted to Zim’s efforts in the Green and Black and we wish her every success at home in the United States.”
