The pieces are coming together for Western United with another milestone in the form of their first A-League Women signing – Alana Cerne.
Cerne makes history as Western Women’s inaugural recruit ahead of their maiden Liberty A-League campaign in 2022-23.
The 19-year-old has starred for defending champions Calder United in NPL Women VIC, where she has been working with Mark Torcaso – who will be Western’s ALW head coach.
“To be the first player to sign for Western United in the A-League Women is just unbelievable,” Cerne said.
“I’ve been aspiring to be this person that I am today 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.”
Western and Calder have formed a close partnership in recent years, with a pathway established from juniors all the way through to the A-Leagues.
Didn’t take long. Great strike from Alana Černe (20yo) who would be among a number of candidates to get into the inaugural @wufcofficial @aleaguewomen team #NPLWVIC pic.twitter.com/HFeZg54wfu
— Teo Pellizzeri (@teopellizzeri) May 29, 2022
Torcaso added: “I’m thrilled that Alana has become our first signing.
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“I have been watching her closely since she was 13 years old and I always knew her quality, so I’m delighted to be able to continue working with her and see her take this next step.
“This is a really exciting signing for us as a club because it’s 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.”
“Signing our first ever female player for Western United is a really proud moment for not only myself, but the whole club,” said chairman Jason Sourasis.
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“From the day of its inception, we have always known that we will be a club of equal opportunity that represents all people.
“I welcome Alana to the Western United family and wish her the best of luck with her on-field pursuits.”