Spartans midfielder Katherine Smart has today announced her retirement from football aged 35.

On her retirement, Katherine had the below to say about her decision:
“I have always believed that football is an ‘all-in’ commitment. It presents physical, emotional and mental challenges which, if 100% committed, can result in real success. I have dedicated so much time to the beautiful game over the last 15 years and, after careful consideration, I have decided the time is right for me to retire.

It was never going to be an easy decision and I am incredibly fortunate to have played for so many years. In that time I’ve played with and against top quality players who have taught me a magnitude of skills on and off the field. My football in Dubai has given me friends for life spanning across the globe. In Scotland it’s given me a second family who are there to ride the highs with and pull me through the lows.

I wish to thank all those involved in my journey, from team mates to coaches, family to friends. Thank you to the Spartans family for welcoming me and reigniting my passion for football again in my final seasons. I have been left with a lifetime of memories (and scars) which I will treasure forever.

I look forward to seeing the continued development of the women’s game and it getting the recognition and podium it rightly deserves.

For me, it is now time to focus my time and energy on other things.”

Katherine leaves with the clubs’ best wishes, as Head Coach Debbi McCulloch stated:
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Katherine for her commitment and loyalty to Spartans over the past three seasons. Katherine’s obsession and desire for the game is always apparent and will be sadly missed within our dressing room. Her contribution to the team has been invaluable and we wish her an enjoyable and happy retirement. Retirement is not the end of the road…it is the beginning of the open highway! Thank you for all efforts Katherine.”

Katherine has made 76 appearances with the club to date, scoring 11 goals in the process. The midfielder looks to end on a high as the team take on Glasgow Women at Ainslie Park this Sunday, 2pm kick-off.