Western United is extremely proud that Academy goalkeeper Michael Vonja has been selected in the latest Subway Joeys squad.
The Joeys is Australia’s Under-17’s representative team and has seen a number of talented players graduate through its system, including current Western United striker Noah Botic who starred at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2019.
Vonja will join Brad Maloney’s Joeys side for a camp in Turkey where the team will compete against Czech Republic, Morocco and Uzbekistan in the U17 Antalya Youth Cup in early February.
Western United Academy Director Anthony Frost said Vonja’s work since arriving at the Club merits his selection.
“Michael has shown in the short time he’s been with us a strong commitment to his personal development and alignment to our Club values,” he said.
“We’re looking forward to seeing how his journey takes shape and we are excited for him and the experiences he’ll gain from this opportunity.”
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato said:
“We have been extremely happy with Michael’s progress since joining the Club and we are delighted that he has been duly rewarded,” he said.
“We look forward to seeing Michael continue to excel under the guidance of our coaching staff and wish him every success in camp with the National Team.”
Vonja has grown up and developed his game in the West, lining up for the likes of Caroline Springs George Cross FC and Green Gully SC in NPL Victoria.
The 17-year-old joined the Club’s Senior Academy set up late last year having previously been at Melbourne City.
Since joining the Green and Black, Vonja has been a regular part of first-team training under the tutelage of Michael Theo, reflecting the strength of his quality and size of his potential.
Vonja is the first Western United Academy player to be selected for the Joeys and will hope to earn further opportunities with the U17 AFC Asian Cup and the U17 FIFA World Cup both taking place this year.
