Western Sydney Wanderers FC striker Kristen Hamilton has been crowned Julie Dolan Medal winner at the Dolan Warren Awards held online tonight.
It is the first time in the club’s history that a Wanderer has won the Player of the Year medal with Hamilton having an outstanding season in the Red & Black.
Hamilton joined the Wanderers from NWSL Champions North Carolina Courage and made an immediate impact, toppling records in the club’s pursuit to make history with their first finals appearance.
The star striker made history by becoming the first player from the Red & Black to win the Westfield W-League Golden Boot, sharing the top billing with seven goals to her name.
Those seven goals also broke the club record for most goals (6) scored in a single season, previously shared by Catherine Cannuli and Katie Stengel.
Hamilton was then named in the Professional Football Association’s Westfield W-League Team of the Year, wrapping up an incredible first season in the Westfield W-League.
Western Sydney Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas congratulated Kristen on the accolade.
“Kristen was a wonderful player for the club this year, leading by example on-and-off the field and thoroughly deserves this achievement,” said Tsatsimas.
“Head coach Dean Heffernan worked hard to put together a strong team this season and Kristen was a great example of finding the right player to match the clubs ambitions this season.”
Kristen Hamilton said the award came as a surprise and was a testament to the team and culture around her.
“It was actually very unexpected and pretty cool to get the phone call, but the (award) is just a testament to the team, the players I was surrounded with, and the coaching staff,” said Hamilton.
Wanderers Westfield W-League major partner Intermain CEO Andrew Johnson said he was incredibly proud of both Kristen and the club’s acheivements this season.
“Intermain is incredibly proud of Kristen Hamilton, the level of sportsmanship and skill she plays with is admirable,” said Johnson.
“Intermain is honoured to support her journey with Western Sydney Wanderers W-League through the sponsorship, and we look forward to watching her long successful career ahead inspiring females in professional sport.”