Philippines star Jaclyn Sawicki will go down in Western United history as the Club’s inaugural Liberty A-League Women captain.
Sawicki will be joined by Chloe Logarzo and Hillary Beall as vice-captains, with the trio set to lead the squad into its first ever season.
Joining the squad with big game experience for the Philippines national team and at club level in Japan and Sweden, Sawicki said she felt privileged to lead United’s inaugural team.
“I am truly honoured to be named this year’s captain for our inaugural season, and I am ever more honoured to share the pitch with such amazing young and experienced players,” she said.
“This is a unique opportunity and I am very excited to start the season with such a wonderful group.”
Logarzo will be a role model for the young players in the team and will lead by example, demonstrating the professionalism and standards that are needed to perform at the highest level.
Beall, while gearing up for her first minutes in senior professional football, has emerged as a vocal leader from the back of the pitch in goal.
Sawicki, Logarzo and Beall will be supported by experienced pair Jess McDonald and Tyla Jay Vlajnic, who form the remainder of the leadership group for the inaugural season.
Western United Head Coach Mark Torcaso said the captains and the various leaders throughout the squad would drive the team forwards.
“Jackie, Chloe and Hillary were all leading candidates for these roles. Jackie’s football presence is brilliant. She leads with her football and application, and she has come in and straight away and become a key member in the group,” he said.
“We know what Chloe will bring when she gets up to speed here with her incredible quality and experience, and Hillary has really emerged as a strong leader on the pitch during games.
“It’s not just those three as well, Jess and TJ will be huge for the group with their experience, which will really help us in big games. I’m pleased with the leadership throughout the group and confident it can help us achieve our goals.”
Western United General Manger of Football Mal Impiombato said the five leaders would be vital in driving the culture of the entire Club.
“We are fortunate to have formed a squad with an abundance of leaders that will continue to drive the professional standards we expect at Western United FC,” he said.
“In appointing Jackie, Chloe and Hillary to lead the broader group and club, we have a trio of leaders and role models to continue to instil and drive the WUFC culture across our Women’s program.
“They are complimented by a broader leadership team with an abundance of experience both locally and abroad, with Jess and TJ to add enormous value to the group.”
Western United’s inaugural Liberty A-League match will take place on Saturday November 19 with a blockbuster clash against Melbourne Victory kicking off at 3pm at City Vista Pavilion and Sports Field.
