Tara Murray
American attacker Hannah Keane is making the trip down under to join Western United’s first A-League Women’s side.
Keane is the second player announced by United ahead of their inaugural season and their first international signing.
The 29-year-old hails from Sacramento and arrives with great pedigree in Europe, having played in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and top divisions in Germany, Portugal and Spain.
Keane said she feels privileged to be a part of history and is eager to get to work and create something special on the pitch.
“I feel honoured,” she said. “I’ve been following Western’s progress as a club and I really appreciate the work they’ve put in to give young women a pathway in professional soccer.
“I’ve always wanted to be a part of something like this and getting this opportunity means a lot to me.
“I’m extremely excited. I’m ready to learn new things and I cannot wait for the season to start and for all the hard work by the supporters, club and players to pay off.”
United coach Mark Torcaso said Keane will bring experience to the side, but above all else her quality up front will help the team score goals.
An imposing striker, Keane has a mixture of qualities including precision finishing and predatory instincts in the box coupled with creativity and expert delivery to set up her teammates.
“We’re really pleased to bring Hannah into the program as our first ever international signing. Her overseas experience will be huge for us,” he said.
Keane will be joined at United by rising Matildas star Kahli Johnson, who signed on the eve of the 2022 FIFA under-20 Women’s World Cup.
Johnson said she is delighted to be part of history in the green and black.
“I’m really excited by this opportunity to join the first ever women’s team at Western United,” she said.
“It’s been a big past year for me and I’m confident that Western United will help continue my development on and off the pitch.
“I can’t wait to get started, and to hopefully create something special at the Club,” Johnson said.
Johnson was a player Torcaso identified early as one he wanted to add to the squad, excited about her potential for the future as well as her immediate quality.
