Katrina Gorry has been appointed West Ham United women’s team’s new Club captain ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Shelina Zadorsky has been named as Rehanne Skinner’s vice-captain, with her and Gorry having had a big impact both on and off the pitch since they signed for the Club in January 2024.
Gorry played seven times for the Hammers before an injury sustained against Chelsea in March ruled her out for the remainder of the 2023/24 campaign. During those matches, the Australia international helped Skinner’s side to seven points, including a first-ever victory over Arsenal in front of a bumper crowd at Chigwell Construction Stadium.
‘Mini’ has been capped 107 times by Australia and has made over 250 appearances at club level across a career that has seen her play Down Under, in Canada, the United States of America, Japan, Norway and now in England.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Barclays WSL opener away at Manchester United, the midfielder explained how excited she is to have the opportunity to lead the team, and how she hopes to achieve success with such a special group this season.
“It’s a massive honour to be named captain of West Ham United and to be given the opportunity to lead such an incredible group of people,” Gorry told West Ham TV.
“It was a special moment when I had the conversation with Rehanne and she asked me to be captain. I was really emotional as it is something that I don’t take lightly.
“It feels as if my whole career has led me to this point. When I gave birth to my daughter, Harper, I didn’t know whether I was going to play football again. I didn’t know whether we’d be able to find a club that would support me and my family.
“But since I walked through the door at West Ham for the first time, I have felt fully supported by everyone at the Club. I feel really happy in this environment, and I can represent my best self here.
“I understand that this captaincy brings a huge amount of responsibility. I’ve experienced a lot of team cultures throughout my time in football and have played under some great captains. There is a lot of positive energy within this group, and I think I can use all of my experience to help the team move in the right direction and reach our full potential.
“Off the pitch, I’m a people person. I love speaking to people, I love problem solving. I know there will always be different personalities in a team, but I like to help get the best out of each individual.
“On the pitch, I work hard and give everything for the team. I hope I can continue to show that in a West Ham shirt and encourage others to follow my lead.
“To step out at Old Trafford wearing the captain’s armband for the first time on Saturday will be a great honour, and I’m really looking forward to this next chapter in our famous Claret and Blue.”
Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate Katrina and Shelina on their respective appointments and wish them the best for the upcoming season.
