Adelaide United’s Michelle Heyman and Georgia Campagnale say they are excited the Westfield W-League 2018/19 season is fast approaching.
Heyman joined the Reds on a one-year contract back in August and arrives boasting a plethora of domestic and international pedigree.
After eight years with Canberra United, Heyman said she is looking forward to a change of scenery.
“I always thought I looked kind of nice in Red so it’s a new colour for me,” Heyman said at the Club’s Season Launch on Saturday night.
“But I’m ready to get out on the pitch and I haven’t played much over the last year because of injury, so I’m really looking forward to get back out there.”
The 30-year-old, who has scored 20 goals in 60 caps for the Matildas, currently holds the record as the all-time Westfield W-League top-scorer.
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Heyman has also previously served in a number of leadership roles and consequently was appointed the team’s Vice-Captain this season.
She admitted she is again embracing the opportunity to continue being a mentor for the younger players in the side.
“We’re kind of a younger group here at Adelaide,” she said.
“I’m pretty proud to be that veteran player and more of that mentor role but looking forward to a good season with the girls, there’s a lot of heart and they’re all winners.
“Especially during our pre-season, just putting the hard effort into the training sessions, so I think that’s going to be a very positive season.”
Heyman will serve as Emma Checker’s deputy and were formerly teammates at Canberra between 2015 and 2017.
“I’m lucky enough that we’ve played in a couple of clubs together and with the national team,” she continued.
“She definitely has a bright future ahead of her, she’s a great leader especially for her age, she’s quite wise.
“I’m really looking forward to it, we’ve got a good bond and we both like to win so that’s the main thing.”
Campagnale praised the new additions over the off-season by Head Coach, Ivan Karlović and was optimistic of achieving success.
“I’m always looking forward to the W-League season starting,” she said.
“This year especially having consistency with the coach such as Ivan (Karlović) and bringing in such great support staff as well it’s really exciting.
“And then we’ve brought in great signings both domestically and internationally, so hopefully we’ve a great season and all the girls are ready to go.”
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The defender, who is one of the longest serving players in the team, discussed the significant growth of the competition in recent years.
The 21-year-old has amassed 38 appearances since the 2014 season.
“Being back with Adelaide United the professionalism each year has just increased,” she said.
“And it has shown with our coaching staff and the facilities that we’ve been given.
“And especially the women’s league, the Matildas have been doing a fantastic job and that only supports the W-League so hopefully that can keep going.”
