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London City Lionesses defender Paige Culver has retired from professional football due to medical reasons.
The Canadian joined the Pride from Frauen Bundesliga outfit Turbine Potsdam last summer, following spells with Kent State University (NCAA), Pink Bari (Serie A), ASJ Soyaux, Girondins Bordeaux (French D1), and IFK Kalmar (Swedish Damallsvenskan).
Culver quickly became a mainstay at Princes Park, tallying 20 appearances in the Barclays Women’s Championship, Adobe Women’s FA Cup, and Continental Tyres League Cup.
In an open letter published by londoncitylionesses.com, the 27-year-old wrote: “When I first started playing football as a little girl I had no idea this journey would take me. I was just chasing a dream. Now, I must step away from that dream due to a career-ending injury.
“Athletes are never fully ready for the moment they are forced to walk away from playing the sport they love. Football has been part of my identity since I was 4 years old. It always will be.
“Football is nothing without its fans and my biggest fans have always been my family. I don't have the words to thank my parents for the sacrifices they made to help me follow this crazy dream, many I am sure I am unaware of.”
Culver has made a positive impression on everyone at London City, including head coach Remi Allen.
“I didn’t know Paige before I joined the Club and the biggest thing I’ve learned about her is her professionalism,” said Allen. “It struck me on day one – she always wants information when she’s on the pitch and played a crucial role in helping us secure our league status.
“She always turned up for us on the pitch – she didn’t have to play through pain, but she did for the team, and she was a huge part of how we put those points on the board.
“Paige is the type of character who I would have in my dressing room at any point as a player or member of staff. She’s got an infectious personality and has the willingness to do the work. She was a joy to work with.”
Everyone at London City Lionesses would like to wish Paige Culver the very best for the future and ask supporters to give her a memorable send-off as we host Lewes on Sunday [28 April].