Born and bred in the west and a star of Victorian football, experienced attacker Aleksandra Sinclair will finally play in the A-League Women after joining Western United for their inaugural season.
Sinclair has made a name for herself with a stellar career in NPL Women VIC and at the age of 34, she will get her first taste of the Liberty A-League.
The veteran arrives as captain of Calder United in the NPLW and reunites with a number of team-mates and Western head coach Mark Torcaso.
“It feels amazing. It’s something I’ve been working hard for for many years, so to have the opportunity to play for Western United and my community is amazing,” she said.
“I grew up playing in the West when I was 10 years old. I’ve had a lot of opportunities throughout my life, but I don’t regret any of those missed opportunities because I believe it’s led me to where I am today.
“To represent Western United is an honour in itself, but to then represent your community where you’ve grown up and lived your whole life – it’s an opportunity that I’m so grateful for.”
A two-time winner of the NPLW VIC Players’ Player of the Year, Sinclair produced a best-on-ground performance as Calder won the 2019 Grand Final.
Sinclair also scored in the Nike FC Final for the second consecutive season as Calder claimed a fifth straight title earlier this month.
“When I talk about my team-mates I try hard not to choke up because they all mean so much to me. Being the oldest in the group, it’s like they’re your little sisters,” she said.
“To take this opportunity at my age, but to do it with such a young group and girls I actually care about and want the best for, it’s pretty special.”
Western, preparing for their historic first ALW season, have already signed Emma Robers, Julia Sardo, Philippines international Jaclyn Sawicki, American attacker Hannah Keane, Adriana and Melissa Taranto, Young Matilda Kahli Johnson and Alana Cerne.
Torcaso added: “Everyone knows what Aleks is about as a footballer, but more importantly as a person, and that’s why this is so special.
“She has given so much to the game and brings so much joy and passion every time she steps out on the pitch and she has built such a reputation in the game in Victoria.
“Added to that she’s a local talent, born and bred in the West and has given absolutely everything to get this opportunity. I’m really honoured to give that to her and I’m excited to see what she makes of it.”
