Durham Women have announced the signing of New Zealand international forward Hannah Blake.
The 24-year-old has put pen to paper on a professional contract at Maiden Castle and becomes our second signing of the summer.
Blake was born in London but grew up in New Zealand, the birthplace of her parents, before moving to the USA in 2019.
She joined the University of Michigan Wolverines in NCAA Division 1, the highest level of US college football, before taking her first steps into professional football when joining Australian top flight side Perth Glory in January 2023.
After netting on her debut against Western United, Blake went on to score three times in just six appearances before being snapped-up by fellow A -League side Adelaide United for the 2023/24 campaign.
The versatile forward – who can play in a variety of attacking positions – is also a senior international for New Zealand having made her debut for the Football Ferns at just 17-years-old.
Prior to that, she had represented New Zealand in the FIFA Women’s U17 World Cup where her stunning goal against France was nominated for Goal of the Tournament.
Blake was also part of the national team’s training camp ahead of last summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.
And now the attacker has put pen to paper on a contract with Durham – with her excitement for the new season already building.
“It’s a bit surreal – coming from the other side of the world,” she said.
“It’s great to be here and get settled in and I’m really excited to get going.
“I’m really excited to be playing in England. Playing in the Championship has been an aspiration of mine for a while now and I’m excited to take that next step.
“Durham is a great club and coming and meeting everyone made me sure that this is somewhere I can play good football.
“It was important to me to choose an environment where I can feel at home and seeing what the club has to offer, know this is the place to achieve what I want to achieve.”
Hannah will wear the number 10 shirt for Durham.
The deal remains subject to international clearance and the approval of all paperwork.
With thanks to Durham WFC
