25/9/23
Above: Ischia Brooking (blue shirt) in action for Hyundai NTC during the NPLW WA season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.
Western Sydney Wanderers have confirmed the scholarship signing of rising star Ischia Brooking for the next two A-League Women seasons.
Brooking joins Western Sydney off the back of the Junior Matildas qualification campaign for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup where she played a pivotal role in the national team’s qualification.
The 14-year-old has been part of Football West’s NTC Program and was last year crowned the U16s Player of the Tournament at the National Youth Championship for Girls in Coffs Harbour.
Head coach Kat Smith spoke highly of Brooking’s potential.
“Ischia is one of Australia’s brightest young talents, and we at Western Sydney Wanderers see massive potential in her and believe she’ll make her mark on the pro game,” said Smith.
“With good dribbling skills, a superb range of passing and a keen eye for goal from any distance, she is a joy to watch.
“We expect Ischia to take this opportunity to join this opportunity to join the professional environment with a growth mindset and unwavering commitment to not only develop as an individual but also to contribute to the club’s goals.”
Brooking said she was inspired to take the next step.
“The facilities here (at Wanderers Football Park) are incredible, so I definitely wanted to join the Wanderers the minute I came to the ground,” said Brooking.
“Game time in general (in the A-League Women would be an honour, just to step on the pitch. Hopefully throughout my time at the Wanderers, I hope to get into the starting line-up.
