Maidstone United Women would like to thank long-serving midfielder and former club captain Gina Riley, who has joined Hollands & Blair after eight remarkable years at the Gallagher Stadium.

Gina arrived at the club at just 15-years-old, and over the next near-decade became one of the most respected, reliable, and influential figures within the women’s set-up. Her contribution extended far beyond matchdays. Alongside her playing commitments, Gina worked closely with the club’s younger age groups, regularly supporting training sessions and helping inspire the next generation of players.

She also played an important role in the club’s Wildcats programme, demonstrating the same passion and commitment she brought to the pitch.

A naturally versatile midfielder, Gina developed a reputation for her willingness to play wherever the team needed her most. Over the years she featured in almost every position on the pitch, even stepping in as an emergency goalkeeper when the squad was hit by injuries, a role she made her own. Her adaptability made her a cornerstone of the team through multiple eras of the club’s development.

In the 2022/23 season, Gina became the senior player in a very young squad, guiding and supporting a group made up largely of 16 and 17 year-olds. Her leadership, experience, and loyalty during this period were vital to the progression of the side, and she continued to serve as a role model both on and off the field.

Among her standout achievements was her contribution to the unbeaten 2019/20 campaign, during which she scored an extraordinary 17 goals in just eight games, helping the squad to one of the most memorable seasons in its history.

Maidstone United Women would like to express their deepest gratitude to Gina for her outstanding service, commitment, and passion throughout her time at the club. She has been an ambassador for the badge, a leader in every sense, and an inspiration to players across all age groups.

John Gooch said:
“At this point we’d usually get a quote from the gaffer, but I wanted to step in for this one. Having seen Gina progress from youth football into leading the squad is something that’ll last long in the memory. It really is the end of an era. I’d just like to thank her and dad Darren for everything”

We wish Gina every success with Hollands & Blair and thank her sincerely for the eight years she dedicated to Maidstone United. She will always be welcome at the Gallagher Stadium.