Scotland U-17 international goalkeeper Alicia Yates has joined Spartans from Hibernian for the forthcoming SBS Scottish Women’s Premier League 1 season.
The 16-year-old, who was nominated for Youth Player of the Year at the recent SWF Awards, will provide continued competitoon between the sticks with the retirement of keeper Charlene Lessells.
Manager Debbi McCulloch told SpartansFCWomen: “I’m really pleased to have secured Alicia’s signature for the forthcoming season. She is a player who we have admired for some time now so we undoubtedly know that she will be a great addition to our squad.”
“Alicia is still young but I have no doubt she will learn quickly as the level of ambition she has is a credit to herself and her family. Working alongside Spartans goalkeeper Rachel Harrison, and our GK Coach Colin Osborne, will only make Alicia better and give her the guidance she needs to play at the highest level.”
Yates said: “I’m really excited to be joining Spartans. This is a fantastic opportunity for me to develop, learn and challenge myself.”
Yates is McCulloch’s third new pre-season signing after midfielder Holly Aitchison and striker Julia Moulton joined over the weekend, while winger and top scorer Beth McKay committed her future to the club.
The new SWPL 1 campaign starts on 9 February and Spartans have four friendly fixtures confirmed, with all taking place at Ainslie Park (1pm KO).
Sunday 12 January – Glasgow City Development
Sunday 19 January – Hamilton Academical
Sunday 26 January – Queens Park
Sunday 2 February – Glasgow Women FC
