The 2021 Capital Football NPLW1 season commences April 10th, and the eight teams in this instalment of the competition have three full rounds to look forward to.
Here’s how the West Canberra Wanderers (previously Woden-Weston FC) are shaping in 2021. The team finished 2020 in 6th place.
Team news from coach Emma Stanbury
NPLW1 Coaching team for season 2021:
Head Coach – Emma Stanbury
Assistant Coach – Daniel van der Drift
NPLW1 squad – players gained:
Emma Guo – Canberra Olympic
Emma Stanbury – Tuggeranong United
Janet King – Monaro Panthers
Maya Binns – ANU
Sofia Chaverra – ANU
Liz Edwards – Monaro Panthers
Emma Alfonso – WCW Reserves
NPLW1 squad – players lost:
Lucy D’arcy – Canberra Olympic
Iesha De Andrade – Canberra Olympic
Cristina Esposito – Belconnen United
Jemima Millar-Carton – Canberra Olympic
Julia Stanton
Anna Vandenbroucke – Canberra Olympic
Any changes to the women’s programme for the 2021 NPLW1 season ?
We have set new standards and expectations, and are creating a culture to be proud of. We have also implemented a ‘senior squad’ set up, where everyone is fighting for that starting 11 spot in first grade come the weekend. We are seeing players now pushing not only themselves but each other to be the best they can be.
Aims for the 2021 NPLW1 season ?
We have been working hard this pre-season to best prepare for what we collectively want to achieve as a whole senior squad – finals football and ultimately, lifting the trophy at the end. We have something special building at WCW. Standards have been set, expectations raised and the girls are rising with it.
Anything else to add about season 2021 ?
I wish everyone in the competition best wishes for the upcoming season and look forward to kicking off Round 1 against Canberra Olympic come April 11th.
Player profiles: Sarah Whitfield (c) & Samantha Savanhu
How many seasons have you played NPLW1 with your current club ?
Sarah: This is my seventh year playing for West Canberra.
Samantha: This will be my third season.
Likely onfield position ?
Sarah: 9 (striker).
Samantha: Either 9 (striker) or 10 (central attacking midfield), depending on the situation.
What’s got you excited about the season ?
Sarah: Recent changes within our women’s team – both players and coaches – has caused a change in dynamic and makes me super excited as so much room is made to develop and grow as a team. I feel this year’s team is the most connected team I’ve seen in the seven years I’ve played in the club.
Samantha: This season, just like any other, we have an amazing group of girls that run from [under-] 17s through to first grade. I am excited to have the opportunity to be a leader in the senior squad whilst also showing the upcoming 17s what senior football is all about.
Who is a rising star in your team that fans should watch out for ?
Sarah: I’ve had the privilege of playing alongside Briana Maguire for the last few seasons and she displays a level of drive and determination like no other and has a raw talent that amazes me every time we play. This girl has no quit! Watch this space!
Samantha: Olivia Castle is definitely one to look out for, she is quiet but always on the ball ready to take on anyone that gets in her way!
Are there any match-ups you are particularly looking forward to ? (This could be a specific opposition player, and/or another club)
Sarah: I’m very interested to see how games go against Canberra Olympic FC this season with their change of coaching and a few changes amongst players. It will be very interesting to see their style and how we play against them.
Samantha: With a new team I’m looking forward to each game day as we will be able to learn and develop as a squad by finding out strengths and weaknesses from the opposing teams.
Anything else you’d like to add ?
Sarah: This season will be a season of development and evolution for my team – I’m super excited to watch us and experience every moment. And with such an amazing coach that is so invested in every member of this squad, I don’t see how it’s not anywhere but up for our team!
Samantha: I hope that all the new Wanderers enjoy their first year and will continue to stay in the family that we have become.
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