WSL: Launceston United 'might surprise a few teams'

Just a stone's throw from the Tasrail workshops at Hobler's Bridge, Launceston United's all-conquering women's side is preparing for its maiden season in the Women's Super League.

With new coaches Frank Compton and Lynden Prince coupled together, United is out to build on the platform of last season's undefeated Northern Championship campaign and test itself against the state's best sides.

Midway through pre-season, Compton is confident project Super League is on the right track.

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"I think we secretly feel that if we can get the pre-season correct then we can look to go mid-table, I feel like we can compete," Compton said.

"There might be a little teething period just to get used to some of the games down south, but I think if our fitness work is done correctly that will be an easier transition.

"I'm pretty thankful that we've got some talent there that should deal with the rest of it quite well - I think they're eager to see 'what's this gap like, is it as big as people say it is?'

"I feel they're ready for the challenge and that's the first thing - if they need to make adjustments in the season as we go, I don't think they'll be a team that's scared to do that, if we need to learn on the job then we'll do that."

United's State League promotion marks the end of a two-year period where Ulverstone was Northern Tasmania's sole representative in the WSL.

The North-West outfit will not compete in the WSL this season as United and Devonport make the jump up, with Compton hopeful the two new Northern clubs will form a passionate rivalry.

Compton said United were still planning to compete in the Northern Championship this season and were on the lookout for a gameday coach.

"I've always felt that's fair - if you're a team that's looking to go State League men's or women's it's only fair to the regional competition that you're showing your strength," he said.

"If you're strong enough to be in the State League you should have your registration numbers and strength in depth to field two teams in my opinion and we're looking to do that."

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Among those planning to line up in United's WSL side is 22-year-old Nichola Clark, who was a staple in last year's title tilt.

"I'm super excited about it," the paramedic and former Launceston Christian School and Launceston College student said.

"I've been wanting to play Super League for quite a few years but Launceston hasn't had a team for a while, so it's really awesome that we have the highest level female football in Launceston now.

"It's a much higher level of competition than most of the girls in the team have played in so there'll be a few things to work out and a few things to improve on at the start of the season, but there's a lot of good-quality players in the team.

"I think we might surprise a few teams but we'll have our work cut out for us - it won't be an easy transition."