Melbourne City FC is pleased to announce the signing of defender Winonah Heatley ahead of the new A-League Women season.
The 20-year-old joins City from Vaxjo DFF in Sweden’s Premier Division.
Heatley has made 16 A-League Women since debuting for Brisbane Roar in 2020 and started every match last season.
A versatile defender capable of playing both centrally and as a full-back, she was called into the Matildas squad for the first time in September this year ahead of the national team’s friendly against the Republic of Ireland.
Her addition to Rado Vidosic’s squad will ensure there’s plenty of competition for spots in defence ahead of City’s A-League Women season opener against Canberra United on December 3.
Winonah Heatley said:
“I’ve always admired City for their style of play and for the professionalism that’s ingrained in the Club, so I’m very excited to now be a part of it.
“I remember coming here to visit my extended family as a kid and going to a doubleheader at AAMI Park. It was the first time I watched a Women’s match live and it was the first time I could really imagine myself playing out under those lights. It was pretty special, and it just feels right to finally be able to play for this Club.
“I’ve always heard a lot of good things about the way City is run and the unity between both the Men’s and Women’s teams. I think that City is a Club that provides player support, resources and facilities at a level that the other A-Leagues clubs aspire to.”
Head Coach Rado Vidosic said:
“We’re very excited to welcome Wini to Melbourne and are looking forward to seeing the impact she can have on the pitch for us.
“Her versatility across defence will be a big asset for us this season and provides our squad with plenty of depth.
“She’s been impressive in training so far and despite being the fact she is just 20-years-old, she already has plenty of experience both here in the A-League Women, as well as overseas and as part of the Matildas set-up.”
