Melbourne Victory Westfield W-League midfielder Christine Nairn has been appointed captain for the 2016/17 season.
Nairn, a United States international, is about to embark on her third season at Victory.
“It’s an honour to be named captain. I’ve been here for three years but I wasn’t expecting it at all,” she said.
“Jeff (Hopkins) and I had the conversation a couple of weeks ago. I’m honoured to represent Victory in everything it stands for.
“It’s something I hold near and dear to my heart, and I’m happy to be here and to represent.”
Nairn was one of the senior members of a predominantly youthful Westfield W-League squad last season.
While the team missed out on the Finals Series, it became much more competitive as the campaign wore on.
Victory has filled its four international spots for the new season, with Nairn joined by striker Natasha Dowie, goalkeeper Bianca Henninger and defender Samantha Johnson.
They will be complemented by an exciting group of emerging talent who will benefit from the experience they gained last season.
“The girls have come back hungry. They’ve had a year under their belt and they’re excited to get back together,” Nairn said.
“Their eyes aren’t as big anymore. They’ve been there for a year and they’re going to get better.
“They’re improving tremendously each and every day, and each and every year. They’re just so eager to learn.
“Last year I think they were kind of happy to be there, and this year they are holding the standard.
“I think it’s going to be so beneficial for them in their growth as players to play with Victory.”
Victory’s Westfield W-League campaign begins away to Adelaide United on Sunday. The match will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 505 and ABC TV from 2.00pm AEDT.
