Canberra are looking to improve on a disappointing season last campaign, and Garriock believes that key to improvement lies in competition for places.

While many W-League clubs stick with a clear experienced keeper and young understudy, Canberra have signed promising young stopper Annalee Grove for her nominal back-up place, with the 18-year-old fresh from a senior Matildas training camp.

“Similar to last season, we have two very strong goalkeepers and it will be exciting to see them battle it out for the number one spot,” Garriock said. 

“Sham made it her position last season with her consistency in games and training, and her character, desire and leadership both on and off the field are great attributes to lead from the back. 

“Annie is one of the best young goalkeepers in the country and I’m really excited to see her grow and develop this year.” 

24-year-old Khamis is now in her second season and looking to build on her performances last campaign to make her name as one of the most promising goalkeepers in the league.

“I’m really looking forward to returning to Canberra for another season,” Khamis, 24, said.

“The club, my teammates and the community all made it a really enjoyable season last year, so it was an easy decision to come back.

“The club gave me an opportunity last year and have again this year so of course I want to build on that. We want to be successful this season so my mentality and work ethic to be better every day won’t change.” 

But Grove plans on pushing her every step of the way after her recent success.

“Being a part of the Matildas training camp was a surreal experience, just being in that environment and with those girls was great,” Grove said.

“I’m hoping that what I’ve learnt from being amongst the team and in training will really benefit me in the coming season.”