Durham Women can confirm that goalkeeper Tatiana Saunders will be retiring from professional football at the end of the month.
Saunders has been offered an exciting new role outside of football and our Adobe Women’s FA Cup fixture at Brighton & Hove Albion will be her final game.
The stopper joined Durham in 2022 and has gone on to make 32 appearances during her time at Maiden Castle.
Speaking about her time with the club, Saunders said: “I can’t thank the club and fans enough.
“You welcomed me with open arms and made the North East feel like home.
“I’m forever grateful for all the love and support I’ve received over the last two and a half years.
“I’m sad to be leaving the North East but will be back soon and will support the club in any way that I can.
“Thank you and – up the Duzza!”
Head of Football, Lee Sanders, added: “After Tatiana came to see me a few weeks ago to discuss the opportunity that had been presented to her, we were obviously disappointed to lose her as a player but understood the circumstances – and we really wish her well moving forward.
“She’s been excellent for me as a goalkeeper and particularly this season has played her part in some key results.
“I’m sure all our fans will join us in giving Tatiana a great send-off at the end of the game against Southampton, which will be her final match at Maiden Castle.”
Everyone at Durham Women cannot thank Tatiana enough for the impact she has made on and off the field during her time at the club, and we wish her well as she embarks on this new chapter of her life. She will always be welcome back at Maiden Castle.
