Newcastle Jets are pleased to announce the promotion of two local juniors, Josie Morley and Lara Gooch, to the A-League Women’s team on Scholarship deals.
Morley, a defensive midfielder, is a local product who has played numerous matches at the national level for both the Junior and Young Matildas, while this year, Gooch, typically a central midfielder, also was identified by Football Australia as part of an elite Under-17s squad as possible future Junior Matildas.
Head Coach Ash Wilson said she was thrilled to be able to promote the two former Academy players.
“Both Josie and Lara have worked hard coming through the academy and have demonstrated a clear potential we want to continue to grow,” Wilson said.
“They both have been a part of Young Matildas and Mini Matildas programs and are currently in that next generation of players who are being closely monitored by Football Australia.
“Lara is explosive and is an exciting prospect with her speed and technical ability. She has a competitive mentality and is not afraid to mix it with more experienced players.
“Josie is a calm, talented player who has great vision and a passing range that can unlock defences in multiple ways. She has a strong workrate defensively which is an important attribute.
“Fans should be excited by their potential.”