EXCLUSIVE: Canberra United are close to signing W-League golden boot and player of the year Michelle Heyman from the now defunct Central Coast Mariners.

Melbourne Victory has signed Vicki Linton as its new W-League coach for the next four-seasons.

NSW powerhouse Illawarra Stingrays won't replace Central Coast Mariners in this season's W-League with the FFA telling the ambitious club the competition will remain at seven clubs for now.

EXCLUSIVE: Central Coast Mariners coach Steve Roche says he’s stunned at the decision to axe the team from the W-League despite players putting their lives on hold for the club.

EXCLUSIVE: NSW powerhouse Illawarra Stingrays are ready to step up to the W-League following Central Coast Mariners withdrawal from the competition, say local officials.