SEASON 2020 | Trio of teens bolster Essendon Royals senior women's squad

Essendon Royals have boosted their senior women stocks with the signing of three exciting young talents ahead of the 2020 season.

Teenage trio Vanessa Sophcoli, Ivana Ovcaric and Sienna Daniel are the Royals latest signings for the club’s senior women’s team.

Sophcoli arrives from Keilor Park, where she played in the club’s senior and reserve teams in State League 1 last season.

She has also spent time at Women’s National Premier League outfit Calder United and said she was excited for the next chapter of her young career at Essendon.

“I’ve been playing since I was 10, meaning 2020 will be my eighth season,” she said.

“As well as my club experience, I was also selected to play for the Girls Sport Victoria state representative team last year and played in the interstate tournament in NSW.

“I’m looking forward to playing with new girls in a new team and club, as well as improving my skills and game technique”

Senior women’s coach Mick Gallo said he was delighted to be able to welcome Sophcoli to the Royals.

“Vanessa is an exciting young prospect that I'm thrilled to help develop her game further,” he said

“She has a killer work ethic and determination to improve. Her pace is exciting and I think she will add an x-factor to the squad in 2020. 

“I am excited to help another great young player take her game to another level.”

Sophcoli’s fellow new signings are also youngsters, but offer plenty of quality to coach Gallo.

Ovcaric arrives from Melbourne Knights and is in fact returning to club having spent some of her formative years at the Royals.

“Ivana started her footballing journey at Royals, and it is great to have her return to the club that feels like home,” Gallo said.

“Ivana in an exciting young footballer that has a wealth of potential, and I am certain that we will see Ivana make a huge statement in 2020.

“She is hard-working, disciplined, respectful and is already impressing throughout the pre-season. 

“This signing further enhances our long term view at Royals, and the future is exciting.”

Daniel signs on as the youngest of the lot, but even at 15-years-old, she represents an exciting talent.

Daniel comes across from South Melbourne, where she previously worked with Gallo, who says the youngster is one of the most exciting talents he has worked with.

“Sienna is one of the talented youngsters that I am excited to confirm as part of Essendon Royals for the 2020 season and many years to come. 

“She may have only just turned 15, but has impressed the more experienced senior players throughout the pre-season. 

“Sienna Is hard-working, respectful and has the warrior mentality that we look for in players. Sienna provides the platform for our senior program to flourish for many years to come.”