Melbourne City FC has bolstered its W-League squad ahead of the new season, with a trio of exciting young signings confirmed.
Striker Holly McNamara and midfielder Darcey Malone (both 18-years-old) have both signed two-year deals, while 15-year-old attacker Caitlin Karic has signed on for 2021/22.
McNamara is a former Young Matilda who has spent the last four years at the Football New South Wales Institute and is regarded as one of the brightest young strikers in the country.
She has captained the Institute and had scored five goals this season prior to the NPL NSW season being suspended due to COVID-19.
Karic is an exciting young player who will bring plenty of talent to our attacking third and provide further flexibility to Rado Vidosic’s playing squad.
The young attacking midfielder will be looking to learn plenty from the more senior members of the squad. She is also no stranger to City, having been part of the Melbourne City College of Football program at Overnewton College since she was just 10.
Malone already has a couple of W-League appearances under her belt, along with experience in the Junior Matildas set-up. Her composure on the ball and football knowledge beyond her years will see her challenging for game time this season.
Following these signings, City now has 13 players confirmed in its 2021/22 playing squad, with more announcements to come in the next couple of weeks!
2021/22 W-League squad (so far): Chelsea BLISSETT, Emma CHECKER (c), Naomi CHINNAMA, Leah DAVIDSON, Sally JAMES (gk), Caitlin KARIC, Darcey MALONE, Holly McNAMARA, Rhianna POLLICINA, Rebekah STOTT, Kaitlyn TORPEY, Tori TUMETH, Hannah WILKINSON.
Head Coach Rado Vidosic said:
“We’re excited to be bringing in three of the best young footballing talents in Australia.
“Holly is one of the top young strikers in the country and we’re very happy to have her joining the Club. She has pace, is technically gifted, and we believe she’ll fit in well with our style of play.
“Caitlin is an attacking threat and certainly has a bright future ahead of her. We’re excited to work with her and help her develop into the player we know she can become.
“Darcey joins us with some previous W-League experience, and she’s also spent time in the Junior Matildas set-up. Her qualities fit seamlessly into our style of play, and we look forward to seeing her improve this season.
Holly McNamara said:
“I’m really looking forward to getting some W-League experience and hopefully getting some game time under my belt.
“City have the best facilities and coaching in the country as well as playing a big role in the development of younger players. I’m very excited to be a part of it.”
Caitlin Karic said:
“I’m really looking forward to playing in a professional environment and playing alongside and learning from the experienced players.
“Rado’s an experienced coach who I think I can learn a lot from, so I’m very excited to play under him.”
Darcey Malone said:
“In speaking to Rado, City’s style of play really suits my game and I feel I can contribute to the team in that regard.
“City is the most successful club in the W-League with a very professional set up and a great team culture. I am excited to be a part of what Rado is building and I feel very lucky to be included in his plans.”
