Canberra United’s squad has received a huge boost with local stars Laura Hughes and Hayley Taylor-Young deciding to #GoGreen and sign with the club for the upcoming Westfield W-League season.
A product of the Canberra United Academy (CUA) program, Hughes will return for her third season with Canberra United after winning the club’s UC Rising Star award last year.
The young midfielder, who plied her trade in the NPLY U18’s competition this past season, is looking forward to another stint in green in 2019/20.
“I love Canberra and I love playing for them,” Hughes said.
“It’s good to have a core group come back this year, and some new faces, and we’re looking forward to building on what we learnt last year.”
Hughes will be flanked by fellow CUA product Taylor-Young, who is gearing up for her debut season in the Westfield W-League.
The 17-year-old striker enjoyed a breakout year in 2019, taking out the Golden Boot honours in the NPLW Capital Football competition after finishing the season as joint top goal scorer.
“I’m really excited to be a member of the Canberra United team this season,” Taylor-Young said.
“I believe the CUA program has helped me develop my skills and understanding of the game and has given me a great platform to build from at the next level.”
Head Coach Heather Garriock says it’s great to see two local players sign with the club ahead of the forthcoming season.
“It’s so important that we have talented, local players coming through into our Canberra United team,” Garriock said.
“Laura and Hayley have both come through the Canberra United pathway programs and similar to Karly [Roestbakken], are great role models for the younger players in the Canberra United setup.
“Hayley had a tremendous year with CUA, she’s lightning quick and can use both her left and right foot, so she can cause real havoc for defenders.”
If you want to #GoGreen with our Canberra United stars, Season 12 memberships are now on sale to the public. Be sure to sign up in time for our Round One clash with Perth Glory at McKellar Park on Sunday, 17thNovember.
Canberra United Squad |
Goalkeepers: Shamiran KHAMIS, Annalee GROVE
Defenders: Taren KING, Nikola ORGILL
Midfielders: Karly ROESTBAKKEN, Olivia PRICE, Laura HUGHES
Forwards: Elise THORSNES, Hayley TAYLOR-YOUNG
