Canberra United welcome back Heyman & Sykes

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Heyman and Sykes will #CUinGreen this season after signing on for the 2016-17 W-League season

Canberra United are delighted to announce the re-signing of stars Michelle Heyman and Ashley Sykes for the 2016-17 Westfield W-League season.

Both were integral pieces of United’s run to the semi-finals last season, and Heyman returns after an exciting offseason which included a trip to the Rio Olympic Games as part of the Matildas side. 

“I am delighted to sign again for Canberra United,” Heyman said. 

“Canberra is now home for me and the opportunity to again represent this great city is something I look forward to.” 

“Canberra United continually challenge for the title and I can’t wait for the season to start so that we can do our terrific fans proud.” 

Sykes meanwhile has been plying her trade for AS Harima ALBION in the Japanese Nadeshiko Division 2 during this year, and will look to pick up where she left off last season, scooping the pool Canberra United’s awards night as the Player of the Year, Players Player of the Year and Supporters Player of the Year. She was also rewarded for her sensational season with the Julie Dolan Medal as Westfield W-League Player of the Year.

“After spending an enjoyable and challenging time overseas this year I can say that it seems like there’s no place like home,” she said. 

“I can’t wait to get back into it with old and new faces at Canberra United.”

Head Coach Rae Dower was very happy to announce the signings, welcoming back two of Canberra United’s best known faces.

“I’m excited to announce the re-signing of our experienced Matilda’s duo Michelle Heyman and Ash Sykes for the upcoming season,” Dower said.

“They’re both key members of the Canberra United family and return as more experienced and worldly after their last 6 months. Michelle had an excellent Olympic campaign for the Matilda’s in Rio and has now had a nice holiday to freshen up for the season ahead. ” 

“Ash as the reigning Julie Dolan medalist has also spent an exciting 6 months in Japan adding to her burgeoning football resume.  With some new faces to the squad this season, I will be calling on all of Michelle and Ash’s guidance as we head into Season 9 and I’m delighted to see them return to our green family.” 

The announcements follow the signing of American striker Stephanie Ochs, who returns after a year absence from the green uniform, and helps to bolster the squad following the devastating news of Caitlin Munoz’s knee injury.