Roar snap up twin Laini

Redcliffe-born Laini Freier has signed for Brisbane Roar – joining her twin sister Sharn for the 2024-25 A League Women’s season.

Laini rejoined Roar six years after starring in the club’s youth squad, playing Sharn through to score the only goal of the NPLW Qld Grand Final.

Older than her sister by 24 minutes, Laini was also a key figure as Brisbane City did the NPLW Premiership and Grand Final double this year.

The midfielder scored seven times, including goals in the semi-final and grand final, both assisted by Sharn, who won her first Matildas’ caps this year.

“I’m very excited to be playing my first A league season with Roar this year. It’s going to be a new challenge for me so I’m grateful for the opportunity,” Laini said.

“Sharn and I have played together since we were little, so I’m stoked to be able to play with her here at Roar. It’s a dream come true.”

Laini and Sharn grew up in Pine Rivers, went to Pine Rivers State High School and started playing football at Pine Rivers United.

They moved to Moreton Bay United (now Moreton City Excelsior after merging with Albany Creek Excelsior last year) and won the NPL Under 15 Girls’ premiership in 2016.

After winning the 2018 Grand Final with Roar Youth, Laini joined The Gap for two years and won the club’s Young Footballer of the Year.

She then returned to Moreton Bay United in its senior side but suffered an ACL injury that kept her out of football until the end of 2022.

However, Laini battled back and has played a starring role in Brisbane City’s rise to the top of the NPLW.