Melbourne Victory is pleased to confirm the return of key defenders, Kayla Morrison, Claudia Bunge and Polly Doran for the 2021/22 W-League season.
Morrison, Bunge and Doran become the first re-signings to be announced by the Club, as Head Coach Jeff Hopkins continues to assemble the squad for the upcoming campaign.
All three were integral to Victory’s Championship win in April and Hopkins is delighted to retain the young defenders.
“I’m very happy to be welcoming Kayla, Claudia and Polly back for the new W-League season,” said the Head Coach.
“We continue to create a unique environment at Victory and we intend to build on our progress in 2021/22.
“Kayla, Claudia and Polly will all play important roles on and off the field to drive positivity and success,” he said.
“Fans can expect some new and familiar faces when we return to the pitch in November.”
Bunge will return to Victory with Olympic experience under her belt, having represented New Zealand in Tokyo.
Doran is set for a third year with the Club, after an impressive season at right-back.
Morrison, who won Players’ Player and the Victory Medal at the 2021 awards night, is excited by the prospect of continuing her journey with the Club.
“It is the best feeling to be returning next season after a great experience with Jeff and the girls in 2020/21,” she said.
“Melbourne Victory gave me a chance last season and I am super excited to be playing at the highest level, under a great coach and with a fantastic group of players.”
Morrison, Bunge and Doran will begin pre-season training in late September with the rest of the Victory squad.
Last week it was announced that the 2021/22 W-League season will commence on November 13, where Victory will launch a Championship title defence.
