West Ham United is delighted to announce that women’s goalkeeper Katie O’Hanlon has signed her first professional contract with the Club.
The 21-year-old, who has penned a two-year deal in east London, joined the Club’s Professional Game Academy (PGA) in 2022 following spells at Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur.
After progressing through the PGA, shot-stopper O’Hanlon spent time on loan at both Hashtag United and Billericay Town, where she gained first-team experience, before returning to the Hammers and has featured in a number of Rehanne Skinner’s matchday squads.
Following a second spell with Billericay last term, O’Hanlon returned to Chadwell Heath, where she worked alongside goalkeeper coach Chris Pipe, as well as Kinga Szemik and Megan Walsh in the first-team squad.
Just weeks after achieving a First-Class Honours degree in Sports Coaching and Performance from the University of East London, in partnership with West Ham United Foundation, O’Hanlon was joined by her proud parents as she committed her future to the Hammers.
Speaking to West Ham TV, O’Hanlon shared her excitement to start her journey as a professional in Claret and Blue.
“The last month has been a very special one for me,” she said. “I turned 21, I got a First-Class Honours and now I have signed my first professional contract in football. To be honest, I don’t think it’s sunk in yet! It’s an amazing feeling.
“Throughout my time in the PGA, I gained some invaluable experience training alongside some of the best players in the world. I tried to be a sponge and pick up small details from everyone on what it takes to play in the WSL and on the international stage.
“I’ve worked with Chris [Pipe] for a long time now and I really like his coaching style. I’m confident that under Chris’ guidance, and being in this environment, I will continue to develop as a player.
“I’m feeling grateful and proud to reach this milestone in my career and I’m looking forward to this next chapter at West Ham.”
Manager Rehanne Skinner also shared her happiness to see O’Hanlon pen her first professional contract.
“I’m delighted that Katie has signed her first professional contract with us,” she said. “I know that this will be a very special moment for Katie and her family and I’m sure the whole group will be absolutely delighted for her too.
“To see another player progress through our Professional Game Academy, interspersed with gaining some important senior experience out on loan, is no mean feat but is a real testament to Katie’s hard work and positive attitude.
“It’s been a pleasure to see the progress that she has made over the last couple of years and I look forward to seeing Katie continue that development with us moving forwards."
Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate Katie on signing her first professional contract and wish her every success in Claret and Blue.
