Western United’s Liberty A-League Women attack will have speed, trickery and clinical finishing with the additions of Stacey Papadopoulos, Harriet Withers and Raquel Deralas.
The trio have all been key players for Calder United in recent years, contributing to consecutive NPLW trebles in 2019 and 2022.
Withers will bring two seasons of A-League Women experience – including a Championship – to the team and is eager to use that to support the group.
“I’m hoping to help guide and motivate the girls this season, both on and off the pitch. I want to make sure the girls are showing and giving everything I know they are capable of,” she said.
“And personally, I hope to hit the back of the net as much as possible and make it a season to remember for everyone. Green and Black will look good at the top.”
Papadopoulos has developed under head coach Mark Torcaso for much of her junior career, and said moving up to the A-League Women alongside him makes it an extra special feeling.
“I’ve known Mark since I was about 14 or 15 and have been coached by him from that age until now so it’s crazy how far we’ve come,” she said.
“He’s a super passionate guy and we’ve had a pretty cool journey over the years. He’s showed a lot of faith in me as a player and it’s pretty special to be a part of this with him as well.”
At 20 years of age, Deralas is the youngest of the three players and has signed a scholarship contract with the Club. She will be hoping to continue her development on the professional stage.
“To be given the opportunity as a young player to continue my development and quality and experienced players is a life-changing opportunity and I’m excited for the next step in my football journey and what lies ahead.”
Western United Head Coach Mark Torcaso said Western United fans should be excited about the attacking talent that each player will bring to the team
“Mixing in Harriet’s experience and Stacey and Raquel as first-time A-League players with all of their attacking talents is going to be really exciting for our team this season,” he said.
“Their speed, skill, finishing ability and work ethic in the final third will be a big boost to our attacking options and I look forward to seeing them continue to develop amongst the group.”
Withers, Papadopoulos and Deralas become United’s 16th, 17th and 18th signings ahead of the Club’s inaugural A-League Women campaign and will join their teammates in pre-season training next month.
