Western United has fortified its young defensive core ahead of the A-League women’s season with the signings of Bulleen Lions stars Isabel Dehakiz and Claudia Mihocic.
Dehakiz won the National Premier League Women’s players’ player of the year at the Victorian Football Gala having previously played professionally in Colombia and been on the Portland Thorns roster as a replacement player.
Mihocic brings ready-made A-League experience to Ironbark Fields with 16 appearances for Perth Glory and has represented Australia with the Junior and Young Matildas.
Continuing their partnership together in the A-League, both players are ready to make an impact with United.
“It feels great to have signed my first A-League contract, especially here at Western,” Dehakiz said.
“That was my goal in coming here, and FC Bulleen gave me a great stepping stone to get there.
“I just can’t wait to meet everyone, to put on the jersey with everyone and fill in whatever role on the field or off the field.”
Mihocic added,” I’m very excited to have signed with Western United. Every facet of the team over the past few years has been strong, and I’m really looking forward to hopping into that.
“Ironbark Fields is the perfect place for the fans to come out – the stadium is great, it’s green and black. I know the active support are loud on the drums and with the chants. That’s the type of culture we want to see at the games, so if everyone can come out that would be amazing.”
United coach Kat Smith said Dehakiz and Mihocic’s qualities add to an incredibly exciting defensive group for the green and black.
“We are delighted to bring Izzy and Claudia to the Club, further strengthening our talented core of defensive players in our squad,” she said.
“Both players have shown their excellence in possession and their strength defensively which will help us in all phases of the game.
“We are looking to play an exciting brand of football, and it’s not just the attackers that will contribute to that. All of our defensive players are blessed with supreme talent and ambition and I can’t wait to see them come together.”
