Adelaide United is delighted to announce that 22-year-old midfielder, Lara Kirkby, has signed a scholarship deal with the Club for the remainder of the Ninja A-League Women’s season.
Kirkby, who recently completed a standout college career in the United States, returns home to Adelaide, eager to continue her footballing journey with the Reds.
Kirkby comes to Adelaide United after four years in the U.S. college system, where she played for the University of Maine, having initially spent a year at the University of Oregon. This month, Kirkby, alongside fellow Australian Grace Wilson, helped lead her team to victory in the America East Conference, cementing her reputation as a key player on the collegiate stage.
Having previously made two appearances for Adelaide United during the 2018/19 season, including her debut against Brisbane Roar, followed up with a second stint in 2020/21, Kirkby is no stranger to the Club. She will proudly wear the number 18 for the Reds this season.
Reflecting on her return to the Club, Lara said:
“It’s great to be home and back at Adelaide United. I’m hungry to bring the success I’ve had from my time in college to the Reds, and I’m excited to continue my development here.
“Adelaide is the perfect place for me to keep growing as a player and contribute to the team’s success this season,” Kirkby said.
Kirkby’s journey began with Adelaide City Juniors and continued through the Football South Australia (FSA) State Program between 2017-2019. She went on to represent West Adelaide in the WNPLSA during the 2020 and 2021 seasons.
Adelaide United’s Head of Football, Marius Zanin, expressed his excitement about Lara’s return to the Club, stating:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Lara back to Adelaide United. It’s always important to keep the door open for players returning home from overseas, and Lara’s development in the USA college system has been impressive.
“We’re committed to nurturing young South Australian talent and look forward to helping Lara continue her journey with the Reds,” Zanin said.
Kirkby’s return marks a continued focus for Adelaide United on fostering local talent and giving young players the platform to develop and succeed at the highest level.
