Perth Glory is delighted to confirm that versatile attacking midfielder Jacob Dowse has signed a one-year scholarship deal with the club.
The 22-year-old impressed during a month-long trial at Glory having previously risen to prominence with Broadmeadow Magic in the Northern NSW NPL competition.
Dowse had scored 12 goals in 15 appearances prior to arriving in the West, playing a key role in Magic’s push for the title.
The former Newcastle Jets junior, who can operate equally effectively as a forward or a wide midfielder, is relishing the prospect of taking the next steps on his football journey with Glory.
“I’m loving it here,” he said.
“It’s very different to what I’m used to, but it’s a good different.
“It’s what I’ve always wanted; to be in an A-League environment and I’m loving it.
“Personally, I want to make my A-League debut and as a team, the top six is definitely a minimum goal and then whatever happens after that is a bonus.
“This season at Broadmeadow Magic I played in more of a striker role, but it’s definitely not out of my comfort zone to play as a left-back or a left-winger.
“I’m happy to fill in wherever I can to help the team.”
Glory Head Coach Ruben Zadkovich, who oversaw Dowse’s development during his time in charge of Broadmeadow Magic, believes that he has the physical and mental qualities required to take his game to the next level.
“He’s an unassuming kid who’s very humble, takes on information well and has a good football brain,” he said.
“I had tracked his progress and when I saw he was doing really well for Magic, I thought I’d bring him over to see where he fitted in against our group.
“The consensus among all our coaching staff was that we should sign him because he has all the right attributes.
“He’s tall, fast and technical and he gives a lot of himself to his team.
“It’s a massive step up and he is still a work in progress, but if he can do what he’s always done and rise to the occasion, he’ll be a fantastic addition to the squad.”
Glory Head of Recruitment, Andy Keogh, also believes Dowse has the potential to impress in the A-League.
“It’s great to welcome Jacob into our Glory family,” he said.
“He has had a tough journey to this point, but has let his character shine through.
“We look forward to seeing what he can produce at a professional level.”
Further signing announcements will be made shortly.
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