Adelaide United have confirmed the return of 22-year-old Lara Kirkby to the club after a stint abroad in the United States college system.
The young midfielder is back at her hometown club for a third stint, having made her debut as a teenager in 2018-19 before returning to the Reds in 2020-21.
Kirkby, who has signed a scholarship deal with Adelaide for the remainder of the 2024-25 Ninja A-League season, recently completed her US college career after four years split between the University of Oregon and the University of Maine.
“It’s great to be home and back at Adelaide United,” Kirkby said.
“I’m hungry to bring the success I’ve had from my time in college to the Reds, and I’m excited to continue my development here.
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Kirby and Adelaide are next in action in the Ninja A-League on Friday night, taking on Western Sydney Wanderers in a Coopers Stadium double-header on December 27.
Adelaide United head of football Marius Zanin highlighted Kirkby’s return as a continuation of the club’s efforts to foster local talent.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Lara back to Adelaide United,” Zanin said. “It’s always important to keep the door open for players returning home from overseas, and Lara’s development in the USA college system has been impressive.
“We’re committed to nurturing young South Australian talent and look forward to helping Lara continue her journey with the Reds.”
