Durham Women have confirmed the signing of New Zealand international defender Michaela Foster.
The 25-year-old has put pen to paper on a professional contract at Maiden Castle to become the club’s fifth summer signing.
It tops off a successful twelve months for Foster who has represented her country at both the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympics, while also being named in the Australian A-League All Stars team at the end of the 2023/24 campaign
The defender was born in Hamilton and began her career with Hamilton Wanderers before heading to the USA where she spent four years at the University of San Diego, featuring regularly for The Toreros during her time Stateside.
Following her studies, Foster returned to her homeland and spent a brief spell with Northern Rovers – before her performances caught the eye of A-League side Wellington Phoenix.
She has spent the last two years playing in the Australian top flight, with her impressive showings seeing her named in the league’s All-Star side that faced Arsenal over the summer.
Foster has also racked-up 22 senior caps for New Zealand and has featured for the Football Ferns at both the World Cup and the Olympics.
And now the defender is keen to make her mark at Maiden Castle and in the Barclays Women’s Championship.
Speaking on her first day at Maiden Castle, she said: “It’s exciting – it’s been in the works a long time and I’m ready to go.
“It’s been cool to see the facilities and meet everyone. It’s really exciting.
“Being here in England, especially with Durham in the Championship, was a great opportunity for me and I’m really excited to be playing for this team in this league.”
All of Foster’s paperwork was approved prior to last week’s transfer deadline and she is eligible for selection for tomorrow’s trip to Charlton Athletic.
The defender will wear the number 20 shirt for Durham during the 2024/25 season.
With thanks to Durham WFC
