Youngster Conversano earns shot at Whittlesea

by Tomislav Buljubasic 0

The Whittlesea Ranges have boosted their squad for 2017 with the signing of 18-year-old Matthew Conversano.

The striker becomes Vinko Buljubasic’s first signing of the off-season following the departures of attackers Atilla Ofli, George Slefendorfas and Tedros Yabio.

He joins the Whittlesea Ranges from Pascoe Vale, where he made his senior debut at 16.

Conversano recently returned from Sydney, where he took part in the PS4 NPL player pathway alongside Nick Glavan and winner of the inaugural award, Kristian Trajceski.

The youngster suffered a severe injury when he was just 15 at Hume City on his U20 debut, shattering his femur.

“I really wanted to prove myself and repay the faith the coach [Matt McNamara] put in me as I was only 15 at the time,” Conversano said.

He came back to football better than ever, joining Pascoe Vale. There he broke through the U20’s and the senior team in 2014.

His debut strike came in a Round 7 clash against Richmond and he went on to make 17 appearances and net a couple of goals.

“I’m looking forward to it. I’m grateful that Vinko’s given me the opportunity to take the next step with some regular senior football, which I feel is important at this stage for me as a footballer,” Conversano said.

“I’m hoping I can help the side build on a strong 2016 season.”

Ranges will be looking to make a few more signing in the transfer period before the season begins.