Durham Women have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Tatiana Saunders.
The 29-year-old has put pen to paper on a contract after spending the last two seasons with Lewes.
Saunders was brought up in New York – although has family in the Lake District – and began playing football at a young age, eventually earning a place at the prestigious Dartmouth University.
After four years with the ‘Big Green’, during which time she earned a number of individual accolades, the stopper took a brief break from professional football and worked in finance on New York’s Wall Street.
But Saunders’ passion to pursue a career in the game burned brightly and she decided to leave her job and make the move to Iceland with FH in 2018.
A spell in France followed where she represented Thonon Evian Grand Genève FC, before being signed by Lewes in 2020.
Saunders has been a near ever-present for the Rooks since, and kept six clean sheets in 16 appearances last season – while also scoring from her own half in the final day win over Liverpool.
And she now arrives at Maiden Castle ahead of the 2022/23 season, and will study for a postgraduate degree with Durham University alongside her playing commitments as part of our masters scholarship programme.
Commenting on her move to Durham, the ‘keeper said: “It’s amazing to be here and I’m so excited.
“I’ve played against Durham and they’ve always been a really strong squad. We’ve always hated to play them because we know they’ve been physical, tough and skilful.
“I know how much potential the club has and I’m excited to be part of it.
“It’s great to be part of a club that values academic prestige and athletic prestige.”
Lee Sanders added: “Tatiana comes in as part of our well-established and successful postgraduate scholarship scheme at Durham University and when we were approached about her availability, her passion for the area and the club itself quickly became apparent.
“She was a player that we wanted to sign and we’re delighted to welcome her to the area.
“Working under goalkeeping coach Steve, we’re looking forward to seeing her develop individually while also strengthening our defensive unit.”
With thanks to Durham WFC
