United take home the cup and the keys

The Chief Minister tonight presented the Keys to the City to Captain Ellie Brush from Canberra United at a reception at the Legislative Assembly.

The keys were presented in recognition of Canberra United winning the national 2012 W-League premiership. The Chief Minister was joined by the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation, Andrew Barr in presenting one of the city's highest honours.

"Ellie Brush and Canberra United are tremendous role models for all ACT footballers and particularly sporting women. They provide a shining example to all young girls playing sport and something to aspire to," the Chief Minister said.

"To win a national title in any sport is an outstanding achievement and Canberra United are deserved champions having gone through the entire season undefeated - a truly remarkable effort.

Canberra United were crowned the 2012 W-League Champions with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Brisbane Roar. The grand final played in front of more than 2,500 fans at McKellar Stadium and was shown live across Australia on ABC TV.

The W-League is a national women's competition that enables local female footballers to perform on a national stage, competing against rising and more established players from across Australia.

The ACT program is establishing a strong reputation for developing talent, reaching the play-offs in all four seasons of the W-League thus far; including the grand final back in season one.

Three ACT representatives are in the current Australian women's squad (Matildas) including Lydia Williams, Ellyse Perry and Sally Shipard, with many more now vying for selection.

"It gives me great pleasure to present the ‘Keys to the City' to Canberra United. This type of recognition is reserved for those who achieve at a level which evokes enormous community spirit and pride," the Chief Minister concluded.