Sydney FC have moved early to complete the signing of 16-year old Academy starlet Joe Lacey on a three year contract starting from next season.
The Northern Beaches born graduate is the first Sky Blues player in history to develop from Sydney FC’s Academy Training Program (ATP) into the Academy under 13 squad and onto Isuzu UTE A-League first team.
Lacey has been part of the Sky Blues matchday squad already this season, having sat on the bench for the round one season opener against Melbourne Victory.
He will continue to train with Ufuk Talay’s squad when school and Academy training permits for the remainder of this season.
“I’m excited and thrilled to have been offered my first professional contract,” said Lacey.
“It’s a dream come true for me. From the moment I started with the Academy Training Program aged 11, I have always wanted to become a professional player and play for Sydney FC.
“To get the contract was the best feeling in my life and I cannot wait to begin my A-League career in Sky Blue.”
Sydney FC’s Academy Training Program takes place every Sunday at Macquarie University and in Kareela and helps improve players while also offering a key opportunity for our coaches to scout and select talent for our Academy squads from U13.
Head Coach Ufuk Talay believes that Lacey has a bright future.
“Joe has the potential to be an excellent player and we are delighted to have completed his signing,” he said.
“He is a very technically gifted number 10, he scores goals and is equally adept using both feet.
“Australia’s best young talent will always get an A-League career opportunity at Sydney FC and we will fast-track them into our A-League squad.
“Joe is one of our biggest talents and has been scouted by a large number of clubs, so we are very happy he has decided his future lies with Sydney FC.”
Lacey’s contract begins on 1st July 2024. He is part of the Sky Blues extended squad for tomorrow’s clash with Perth Glory at Allianz Stadium.
