Western United Head Coach Mark Torcaso has been named the Liberty A-League Women Coach of the Year, adding further recognition to the Club’s remarkable debut campaign.
In his first season as a professional head coach, Torcaso engineered a history-making season at Western United, defying expectations with his young side.
Torcaso led his side to a second-placed finish and an historic Grand Final appearance where, while the team couldn’t secure victory, United performed admirably to end a superb campaign.
After receiving the award at the A-Leagues’ Dolan Warren Awards night on Thursday, Torcaso said it was worthy recognition for the efforts of all of his staff and players.
“I am very proud to receive this award, but as I have said all season it is a team effort and it would not be possible without the rest of the staff and the playing group,” he said.
“A special thanks goes to Jason (Sourasis), Chris (Pehlivanis), Mal (Impiombato), Amanda (Stella) and the board for all of their work and constant support in our inaugural season.
“It was an honour to represent Western United in our first Liberty A-League season. I am proud of what we achieved and already looking forward to going again next season.”
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato praised Torcaso’s contribution to the team and to the entire Club, insisting that the team’s success would not have been possible without him.
“We are thrilled that Mark has been given this honour as Liberty A-League Coach of the Year in both his and the Club’s first season in the league,” he said.
“Mark has been dedicated to his craft and this is just recognition of his work, as well as that of all staff in our women’s program, to contribute to a memorable campaign.”
Torcaso won the Liberty A-League Coach of the Month award in November, December, January and February, missing out only on the March award.
That was testament to United’s consistency throughout the campaign as Torcaso gave opportunities to 22 players across the season, including eight players who made their professional debuts.
Torcaso was able to draw the very best out of his young squad to give individuals the chance to express themselves and impress in the Club’s first season.
Torcaso and his coaching staff will already be looking ahead to the 2023/24 campaign where Western United will look to not only follow up the successful inaugural season, but go one better and bring some silverware to the West.
