Emma Robers and Julia Sardo will add ready-made A-League Women experience to Western United after signing on for the Club’s inaugural season in the competition.
Robers became a Liberty A-League Women champion with Melbourne Victory last season and also took part in the inaugural women’s Asian Champions League, while Sardo has represented Perth Glory and Melbourne City in previous stints in the league.
Having both been key players in Calder United’s NPLW side, the pair are eager to make their mark with Western United.
“This is a once in a career opportunity, I’m proud to make history with the inaugural Western United women’s team,” Robers said.
“We will be proving to everyone across the country that the girls from western Victoria are a force to be reckoned with, and wow am I excited!”
Sardo added:
“Being a part of the first season for Western United is a massive opportunity for me, considering the success this club has had already. I’m really looking forward to being part of the culture and to continue to make history.”
With plenty of experience in the competition between them, Robers and Sardo are both looking to use their knowledge to help inspire the group while also possessing the same tenacity to learn and develop.
“I will use my experience dan presence on and off the field to create a team culture where we are all equal regardless of where we have come from,” Sardo said.
“To build a good foundation as a team is really important.”
“Having won the Championship with Victory last year, I know what it takes to be a champion in the A-League Women. I know the hard work, dedication and commitment that goes into winning a Championship and I will bring this knowledge and leadership with me to Western United,” Robers added.
Western United A-League Women Head Coach Mark Torcaso is looking forward to working with Robers and Sardo in a professional environment.
“I’ve coached both of these girls since they were each 16 or 17 years old, so this one really means a lot to me personally,” he said.
“Having followed their journeys and having seen each of them grow through the system, I’m really honoured to now give them both an opportunity in the A-League Women.
“United fans will really enjoy watching them and will come to appreciate their commitment and tenacity on the pitch. I can’t wait to see them in action.”
A tall, powerful central midfielder, 24-year-old Robers has impressed with her all-round midfield attributes, with composure on the ball and physicality in defence together with a lethal eye for goal.
Sardo has proven herself as a buccaneering right-back with quality on both sides of the ball, and the 27-year-old will be eager to make an impression in Australia’s premier women’s competition once again.
Both players will continue their focus with Calder United heading into the NPLW finals before beginning preparations for the A-League Women season, which is set to begin in mid-November.
