Perth Glory is delighted to confirm that Philippines international defender/midfielder Jessika Cowart has joined the club’s Liberty A-League squad for the 2023/24 season.
The 23-year-old, who is equally accomplished as a centre-back or holding midfielder, played in each of the Philippines’ three games at this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup to take her tally of senior international caps past the 20-mark.
A standout performer at US collegiate level for the University of Washington Huskies between 2017 and 2021, Cowart gained her first experience of European football in the Turkish Women’s Football Super League with Caykur Rizespor.
A move to Swedish top-flight club IFK Kalmar followed earlier this year where she established herself as a first-team regular ahead of her involvement with the Philippines at the World Cup.
Glory’s new recruit is now excited to gain her first taste of A-League football.
“After multiple conversations with the coaching staff,” she said, “I was impressed with their commitment not only to us as players on the field, but also as people off the field and that is a big reason why I signed for Glory.
“I am highly impressed by the environment that has been built and it’s clear to me that this is a top organisation and I’m honoured to be a part of it.
“The A-League is growing fast and furious and is a very competitive league.
“I hope to not only represent Perth well throughout the season, but also to help bring home a championship.”
Glory Head Coach Alex Epakis believes that Cowart’s range of qualities make her an ideal addition to the squad.
“Jess was a player who stood out to me during my time with the Philippines national team at the Women’s World Cup,” he said.
“She comes to us after a great personal experience from that World Cup campaign and past exposure to some strong competition from her recent time playing in the Swedish top division.
“Jess has a really strong technical skill-set which will allow us to build up and start our attacks from deep areas and help us be the type of attacking team we want to be.
“She is a versatile player who can play across midfield and defence and has a great tactical understanding of the game.
“Moreover, her character and energy is very infectious and I have no doubt she will be a strong and positive personality within the group this season.”
Further signing announcements will be made shortly.
#ONEGlory
