Great to spend the evening @womensfootballawards celebrating the people continuing to drive the game forward.
Loved catching up with old teammates and familiar faces.
Massive congratulations to all of the nominees and winners. There’s so much good work happening across the game right now and nights like this are a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate it!
Styled by: @00yastyling00
Dress: @shein_gb@sheinofficial
Shoes: @gucci
📸 : @staceyosborne__
Life’s all about balance 🙂
Dear Football,
For more than 15 years you’ve been my world. My routine, my identity, my escape and my purpose.
You gave me teammates who became lifelong friends, coaches who pushed me beyond my limits and fans who lifted me when I needed it most. You gave me trophies, injuries, highs, lows, lessons and memories I’ll carry forever.
Along the way I was lucky enough to lift:
🏆 5 Continental Cups
🏆 4 FA Cups
🏆 3 FA WSL Titles
🏆 1 FA Premier League Title
Letting go hasn’t been easy, but I’ve finally accepted that the time has come to officially retire.
To my nearest and dearest, thank you for supporting me through every season, setback and celebration. I couldn’t have done it without you!
I’ll miss playing, but I’m forever grateful for everything the game has given me…
What a journey it’s been. Thank you 🥹⚽️❤️
This has been the best yet toughest year of my life.
The best because I welcomed my daughter into the world. But the toughest because I’ve been trying to navigate the complex transition out of professional football into the next chapter of my career.
There’s no guidebook for rebuilding your identity while balancing motherhood, purpose and the practical realities of life. This year I’ve experienced uncertainty, frustration, hope and growth.
I’ve put myself forward for roles that align with my values and lived experience. And while I’ve been proud of the conversations I’ve had, I’ve also been rejected with the same message:
“Strong CV… but not enough experience.”
It’s a tough one to accept as I’ve spent years operating at an elite level, learning through pressure, leadership, adversity and resilience. My experience might be less traditional, but no less valuable.
This year has tested, stretched and grounded me.
I’ve learned that knowing your worth isn’t arrogance and holding out for the right opportunity isn’t stubbornness… It’s self-respecting.
Motherhood has given me perspective. Transition has given me patience. And rejection has given me a deeper kind of resilience.
So while this year hasn’t looked how I imagined, I’m ending it with a better understanding of what feels right for me. I know what I bring and I’m ready to move forward into a role where my lived and professional experience can create meaningful impact.
I’ll remain hopeful, prepared and open to whatever 2026 may bring! 🙏🏾🤍✨
DC x
Life has shifted lately, in all the best ways 🤍
Took a much needed wellness weekend at @crazybearhotels and left feeling fresher, stronger, and seriously well fed!
Ended my stay with a PT session with @wildptjamesg that balanced science, soul, and just the right dose of challenge to leave me feeling renewed.
Would definitely recommend and can’t wait for the next one!
#gifted
After two seasons with London City, I’ll be moving on to begin a new chapter in my journey-both on and off the pitch.
Over the past year, I temporarily stepped away from the game to give birth to my daughter and embrace motherhood-an experience that has been life changing and deeply empowering.
Now, I’m looking ahead with renewed focus and excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead in football and beyond. I’m ready to return stronger, with a new sense of purpose!
Thank you all for the continued support.
DC x
