Western United is proud to announce Alana Cerne has made history as the Club’s inaugural Liberty A-League Women player ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Cerne, 19, has developed rapidly in the Victorian NPL system and has become a star player in Calder United’s senior women’s side.
Born and bred in the West, Cerne is a clear representation of a player that has made it through each step of the elite pathway that Western United is striving to create for talented female footballers.
A gifted ball player with fierce ball-striking and strong competitiveness, Cerne can play in any number of positions including centre-back, full-back and central midfield.
Upon putting pen to paper on her first professional deal, Cerne said this was another step in achieving her dreams and an opportunity that she is ready to take.
“To be the first player to sign for Western United in the A-League Women is just unbelievable,” she 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 United Chairman Jason Sourasis acknowledged the momentous occasion.
“Signing our first ever female player for Western United is a really proud moment for not only myself, but the whole Club.
“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.”
Western United Women’s Head Coach Mark Torcaso has witnessed Cerne’s development first-hand at Calder United and is eager to see what she can do in the A-League Women.
“I’m thrilled that Alana has become our first signing. 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,” he said.
“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.”
Western United will continue to populate its inaugural A-League Women squad ahead of pre-season and the campaign beginning in mid-November.
Sign on with Alana Cerne and join the Green and Black as a Foundation A-League Women Member.
