Josh Risdon will depart Western United at the closure of the 2023/24 Isuzu UTE A-League Men season, leaving a legacy as one of the Club’s greatest ever legends.
Risdon was the first-ever Australian player signed by Western United back in February 2019 and has gone on to become an icon in Melbourne’s west.
The right-back totalled 90 appearances in Green and Black, the fifth most in the Club’s history, and was behind many of the Club’s greatest moments.
From assisting Western United’s first ever goal against Wellington Phoenix to captaining the side on Grand Final night in 2022 and winning the Club’s Player of the Season medal in 2022/23, Risdon has spearheaded the Club’s development in its first five years.
Speaking on his time in Green and Black, Risdon said he leaves with memories, experiences and relationships that he will never forget.
“I remember our first home game out at Georgies to our first home game here in Tarneit, and everything in between. Our first win over in Wellington, the Grand Final, being able to captain this club. All those things will mean a lot,” he said.
“To be able to say I had a part in helping build what’s going on here makes me very proud, and is one I’ll be able to tell the grandkids.
Hear from Josh Risdon in his full farewell interview
“I want to say thank you to all my teammates who I’ve been with throughout these five years, everyone at the club from high up to the admin staff, and particularly to our football department.
“And lastly, to all the fans. You’ve been great for these five years, we’ve travelled to different places and you’ve always been there supporting us. I really appreciate the support you’ve given me and to the players.
“I wish nothing but the best for this club in the future and I’ll be watching on from afar.”
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato hailed Risdon as one of the Club’s all-time greats.
“As a foundation player of the Club, Josh has played a significant role in our journey both as a person and as a footballer, and we are extremely proud to have him as a leading figure in our Club’s history,” he said.
“His commitment on the pitch has been matched by his personality off it, and I am sure he has had a positive impact on every single person that he has interacted with at our Club.
“On behalf of our football department and our entire Club, I want to sincerely thank Josh for his contributions to Western United. I wish him and his family all the very best in the future, and they will always be welcome at Western United.”
Respected by his peers and the fans, it was only fitting that Risdon’s final game for the Club was the first-ever men’s fixture at the Regional Football Facility in Tarneit, ending in an incredible 4-2 victory over Macarthur FC.
His achievements and legacy will live on amongst the Club’s honour roll, and everyone associated with Western United will be wishing him the very best in the future.
