New owners rescue Canberra United from financial turmoil

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 23:32 · Archive

Australian Sports Group bought A-League Women club Canberra United in July after two years of government support.

Australian Sports Group bought A-League Women club Canberra United in July, ending two years in which the club had relied on ACT government funding. The acquisition brings new investment in club facilities and an academy structure.

Matildas veteran Michelle Heyman, a Canberra legend, said the uncertainty of recent years had been frustrating. "It's been quite frustrating for the last two years to end the season and be unsure if there is going to be a club," she told AAP. "To know that these owners have jumped on board and they're putting things in place, it just allows a lot less stress."

Heyman added that the reduced burden means she can focus on playing. "I feel like it's going to be a big shift this year because I don't have to have that noise this season," she said. The move comes as Matildas coach Joe Montemurro has indicated he will prioritise players based overseas over A-League Women talent. The domestic league, which is not fully professionalised, has faced criticism from players including Sam Kerr, Ellie Carpenter and Caitlin Foord for falling behind US and European standards. Heyman, not called up to the Matildas since the Asian Cup this year, described Montemurro's approach as "upsetting".

How it is being reported

• 'Less stress': new owners, new era for Canberra UnitedMichelle Heyman says Canberra United have never been better placed to return to their trophy-winning ways after new owners rescued the A-League Women club.The West Australian · 20 Oct, 23:02
• 'Less stress': new owners, new era for Canberra UnitedMichelle Heyman says Canberra United have never been better placed to return to their trophy-winning ways after new owners rescued the A-League Women club.Perth Now · 20 Oct, 23:02

In this story: Michelle Heyman · Canberra United · Australian Sports Group · Joe Montemurro · Canberra

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem