Former Heidelberg United captain Rita Mankowska has made the return to her former stomping ground, signing with the Bergers for 2016.
The defender also played in the American college system and for Melbourne Victory in the early years of the W-League before pursuing a corporate career in Western Australia after the 2011/12 season.
She joined the Northern Redbacks Perth in 2013 and played with them for two seasons, winning the WA Premiership in 2013.
Shorty after making the decision to come back to Melbourne in 2015 she was offered the opportunity to take up a part time team manager role with Victory W-League, returning to train with Heidelberg after the season’s conclusion.
A former Heidelberg junior, Mankowska only needs to play seven times to reach the 200-game milestone for the club.
“I’m really excited to be back playing in Melbourne after three years interstate. When I decided to move back from Perth, there was only ever going to be one Victorian club that I would play for, and that’s the same club that I’ve played for since I was 13 years old – Heidelberg United,” Mankowska said.
“I’m looking forward to playing under Bill and Jamara this season. They have set some great standards in terms of team culture and work ethic and I’m excited to be a part of that.
“There has been a lot of positive change at the club since I left in 2012, it’s really exciting to see.
Not only have they retained some experience, but they’ve also picked up a lot of talented young players who I’m excited to work with this season.”
“I can’t wait to get back on the field donning the yellow and black just like old times. It feels like I never left.”
Heidelberg United coach Bill Mihaloudis lauded the immediate impact one of the club’s favourite daughters was already having on the club.
“We are very excited to have one of our own back in Heidelberg colours. Especially someone of Mankowska’s character and ability,” Mihaloudis said.
“Rita’s playing career speaks for itself and her performance and achievements clearly show just how important she is to us.
“Also, she has blended in very quickly and has been very impressive over the past few weeks especially the exciting new dimension Rita has added to our team.”
