Photo: Mark Tizard/Galaxy United
Galaxy United have secured the services of inaugural coach Vincenzo Ierardo for the 2017 NPLW season, also extending the stay of a number of key players from their successful first season.
The leadership group of Laura Spiranovic and Jess Tay have signed on for next year, while Melbourne Victory fullback Annabel Martin takes up the new role of co-captain for 2017 as she remains on the Surf Coast for another season.
Head coach Ierardo oversaw a fourth placed finish in the league, as his side qualified for the first ever NPLW finals series, going on to make the Grand Final after two successive wins against Bulleen Lions and Alamein FC in the build-up.
While they were unable to secure a title in their inaugural season, there were plenty of positives to take into next season.
Ierardo is currently balancing duties with Galaxy with his role working alongside Jeff Hopkins in the backroom staff of Melbourne Victory’s W-League side.
The former Geelong SC and Fawkner SC player/coach also has coaching experience within the Skilleroos and NTC set-up and helped further develop a wealth of youth talent in his Galaxy outfit.
“It’s an honour to be here, the club is still establishing itself in the NPLW competition and I want to be a part of that,” Ierardo said via Galaxy United’s Facebook page.
“We have a great bunch of people behind the scenes working hard to try get this club right, not just for now but the long-term. It’s also fantastic to have so many players re-commit to the club so quickly after the season…we look forward to season two of the NPLW.”
Spiranovic signs on again with the club and gets the chance to lead her side once more in 2017.
The 24-year-old has plenty of experience at national level with Melbourne Victory, making her W-League debut in late 2011.
She has spent time with South Melbourne and Ashburton SC in the old Women’s Premier League and has established herself as one of the best forwards in Victoria.
The Geelong local – and sister of Socceroo Matthew Spiranovic – was the first name to sign for Ierardo’s Galaxy, and she spoke of her pride in donning the jersey given her home ties.
“Having an established team in Geelong in the top flight of NPLW is fantastic,” Spiranovic said.
“I’m really proud to wear the Galaxy badge and help lead the club in the upcoming season”.
Utility midfielder/defender Tay had a standout year marshalling a young defence to the second best defensive record in the NPLW, with just 27 goals conceded across the home and away season.
Formerly of Boroondara Eagles – where she played a starring role in the Eagles’ barnstorming 2015 season – and Bulleen Lions, Tay joined Galaxy ahead of the 2016 season due to the suitability with her work arrangements.
She was amongst the best defenders of the year and her form sees her taking part of the Bass Straight Cup squad to take on Melbourne City and a Tasmanian select XI in coming weeks.
The club vice-captain will retain the role heading into next season and spoke glowingly of the culture of the club.
“I’m very honoured and proud to represent Galaxy,” she said.
“I love this club and the players we have here. It’s a great culture and looking to build on last season both on and off the field”.
Martin, similarly contributed to the defensive stability that Galaxy enjoyed throughout the season and played a big role in their run into the Grand Final.
The reigning Victory Medallist enjoyed a memorable performance in a losing Grand Final, playing through injury to win best-on-ground honours and playing a role in Galaxy’s only goal of the match.
She joins Spiranovic as the new co-captain of the club and spoke on her delight at getting the chance to lead the side next season.
“I’m very happy to be promoted to co-captain of the club, it’s truly a privilege,” she said.
“When I sat down with Vince to discuss next season, I was happy to re-commit to Galaxy. I’m thankful for this opportunity to lead my club and want to thank Vince.”