Western Sydney Wanderers FC are pleased to announce the promotion of Catherine Cannuli to the role of Wanderers Westfield W-League head coach.
Cannuli takes on the role following the departure of club legends Dean Heffernan and Michael Beauchamp who decided to stand down from their roles respectively as head and assistant coaches of the W-League team late last week.
Heffernan and Beauchamp depart following two seasons coaching the Wanderers W-League team, including a Finals appearance in 2019/20.
Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas thanked Heffernan and Beauchamp for their dedication to the W-League over the past two seasons.
“Firstly, I have to thank Dean and Michael for their tireless work in helping shape our W-League program and providing opportunities to some exceptional young talent in Western Sydney,” said Tsatsimas.
“Dean and Michael are Wanderers legends, they have played an important role in the club’s development and we wish them every success in the future.”
A former Matilda, Cannuli finished her playing career at the Wanderers in 2014 before re-joining the club in 2017 as an assistant coach and has been ever present supporting the development of young players in Western Sydney for the past six years.
In 2020, Cannuli was named Female Coach of the Year at the Female Football Awards for her work at the Wanderers and in grassroots football as Women’s Technical Director at Southern Districts Soccer Football Association.
Tsatsimas was effusive in his praise for Cannuli and her passion for the club.
“Cath has been nothing short of outstanding in her work in our women’s program, the way she interacts and encourages the playing group and staff, both on-and-off the pitch is exemplary, she brings people together and cares deeply about her work and this club,” continued Tsatsimas.
“We are delighted to have Cath take up the head coach role, not only does she deserve this chance, she has well and truly earned thanks to her tireless work and dedication to women’s football and the Wanderers Football Club.”
Cannuli has already commenced recruitment for the club’s Westfield W-League 2021/22 season and is focused on taking the club back to the Finals in 2022.
“It’s an exciting opportunity, I’ve been involved with the club since the very beginning, first as a player and now as head coach,” said Cannuli.
“It’s a great opportunity and one that I have always wanted to do. I have been around a lot of good coaches and had some great mentors who have guided me along the way.
“Having Southern Districts Soccer Football Association and the Wanderers supporting me over my coaching journey over the last few years has been a blessing. They have been so supportive of me growing as a coach and providing me with the resources and tools to become the coach I am today.
“I’ve got to hit the ground running now with recruitment and planning. There is a lot that needs to be done and I’ve been around for a long enough time now so I know what needs to be done.”
