The Stingrays have continued their signing spree, announcing that Canberra United W-League reserve goalkeeper Sally James was heading to the Illawarra.

James is the third United player to sign with the Rays' Women's National Premier League One side this week, joining midfielder Olivia Price and defender Lauren Keir. At 17 years of age, she is the youngest out of the trio.

James will juggle her playing duties with taking part in Football Federation Australia's Future Matildas program, which aims to develop the next generation of elite footballers.

She told the Mercury that she couldn't wait to play alongside Price and Keir at the Stingrays.

"It's definitely good to have some familiar faces, I'm friends with both of them," the teen said.

"I'm excited to get to know all of the girls. I just want to keep learning off all of the older girls, obviously players like Michelle Carney, and try my best."

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James has just completed her first season with the United, with the side missing the finals after finishing sixth on the W-League ladder.

While she didn't play a W-League game, James said it was an important season training alongside fellow goalkeepers Sham Khamis and Annalee Grove.

"I learned a lot," she said.

"There was definitely a lot of running and hard work, but I really enjoyed learning off 'Annie' and Sham. It was just amazing, I really enjoyed it."

James, Price and Keir remain under contract at Canberra United and won't be available for the Stingrays' season opener against the Northern Tigers this Sunday.

The trio are expected to make their Illawarra debuts later this month.

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