Victorian football icon and local westie Aleksandra Sinclair has signed her first ever Liberty A-League Women contract, joining Western United’s inaugural team for the 2022/23 season.
A skilful attacker with an outstanding goal-scoring record, Sinclair has forged an exceptional career in NPLW and will now make the next step in the professional game.
The Melton local said she was privileged to join United in its first ever season, admitting it will be a special feeling to represent her local community.
“It feels amazing (to sign for Western United). It’s something I’ve been working hard for for many years, so to have the opportunity to play for Western United and my community is amazing,” she said.
“I grew up playing in the West when I was 10 years old. I’ve had a lot of opportunities throughout my life, but I don’t regret any of those missed opportunities because I believe it’s led me to where I am today.
“To represent Western United is an honour in itself, but to then represent your community where you’ve grown up and lived your whole life – it’s an opportunity that I’m so grateful for.”
As captain of the Calder United NPLW Senior side, Sinclair will join a number of her current teammates in signing for Western United, something that she said she is honoured to be able to do.
“When I talk about my teammates I try hard not to choke up because they all mean so much to me. Being the oldest in the group, it’s like they’re your little sisters,” she said.
“To take this opportunity at my age, but to do it with such a young group and girls I actually care about and want the best for, it’s pretty special.”
Having worked with her over a number of years at Calder United, Mark Torcaso heaped praise on Sinclair and said bringing her with him to Western United was an easy decision.
“Everyone knows what Aleks is about as a footballer, but more importantly as a person, and that’s why this is so special,” he said.
“She has given so much to the game and brings so much joy and passion every time she steps out on the pitch and she has built such a reputation in the game in Victoria.
“Added to that she’s a local talent, born and bred in the West and has given absolutely everything to get this opportunity. I’m really honoured to give that to her and I’m excited to see what she makes of it.”
Sinclair has captained Calder United throughout much of its success in recent years, winning the NPLW Victoria Players’ Player of the Year in 2018 and 2019.
After bagging 26 goals in 29 games in 2019, Sinclair produced a remarkable best on ground performance in the Grand Final as Calder defeated Bulleen Lions at AAMI Park to claim the Championship.
Earlier this month, Sinclair scored in the NIKE F.C. Cup Final for the second year in a row, helping Calder to win a fifth consecutive title.
After the match, Sinclair dedicated the win and her performance to her father after he had passed away days prior, making the achievement all the more special.
