The Redbacks are delighted to welcome tenacious young defender Alessia Napolitano to our VPLW squad for 2026.
Alessia has followed head coach Jonathan Barrientos to Eltham from Bundoora United.
Primarily operating at right back, Napolitano broke into the Bundoora first team as a 17-year-old in 2023. She enjoyed a strong campaign in a side that finished third last season, making 22 appearances and scoring twice.
“Coming from NPL juniors to VPL seniors was a big jump,” she says.
“I think being one of the young ones in that team environment was probably really daunting at the time.
“But I think what I’ve learned over the years is that confidence is a big thing.
“Knowing your ability and that you are good enough to play is one of the most important things because it shows when you’re playing.”