Canberra United can today announce the loan signing of Toni Pressley from the Orlando Pride for Season 10 of the Westfield W-League.
Pressley, a powerful centre-back, was an important part of the Pride’s run to the Playoffs in the recent NWSL season before they were ousted in the semi-finals.
Having arrived in Australia just over a week out from the season after the NWSL season, Pressley said she couldn’t wait to get started.
“I am thrilled,” she said. I’m just so excited to try something new and work with my new teammates.”
“I only hope I can influence my new teammates in a positive way.
“I’m most excited for what I will be able to learn from them as well.”
The six-foot tall defender played 18 matches for the Pride this season, starting 13 and scoring once in the process.
She has previously played for Washington Spirit, Houston Dash and the Western New York Flash, but will make her W-League debut.
With so many players in both leagues Pressley is bound to cross paths with some of her Pride teammates, but she is looking forward to the challenge.
“It is going to be fun competing against them since I’ve been playing with them for several months,” she said.
“And I’m excited for the challenge.”
Pressley marks yet another experienced addition to Head Coach Heather Garriock’s defence, and the former Matilda expressed admiration for the new defender’s quality.
“It was very exciting to meet Toni,” Garriock said.
“I had seen her play throughout the NWSL for Orlando, and her left foot and defensive qualities caught my eye.
“Her physical ability is outstanding; she is powerful, very good one-on-one and with great technique she will certainly be a crucial part of our defence this season.”
Pressley is the third international signed by Garriock for Westfield W-League Season 10, after the addition of fellow American, goalkeeper Haley Kopmeyer and English centre-back Laura Bassett.
Pressley will get her first taste of the W-League when United face Melbourne Victory at Epping Stadium this Saturday at 4:30pm.
Canberra United 2017/18 Westfield W-League Squad
Goalkeepers: 1. Haley Kopmeyer, 36. Georgia Boric
Defenders: 3. Clare Hunt, 4. Toni Pressley, 21. Ellie Carpenter, 34. Laura Bassett,
Midfielders: 5. Georgia Plessas, 6. Caitlin Munoz, 8. Liana Danaskos, 10. Grace Maher, 16. Karly Roestbakken, 20. Amy Sayer,
Forwards: 7. Nickoletta Flannery, 23. Michelle Heyman,
