Gintra gathered for their first training session ahead of 2024. The multiple champions aim to remain dominant in Lithuania and the Baltic region, defending their A League and Baltic League titles.
They will again represent Šiauliai and Lithuania in the UEFA Women's Champions League. The minimum goal is the qualifying final. The club hope to receive hosting rights again this year.
The entire Lithuanian core remains, joined by several other Lithuanian players, promising academy graduates and overseas arrivals expected shortly. Each addition will be announced separately.
Bulgarian Kaloyan Petkov begins his third year in charge, supported by assistants Sergej Palijčuk and Dovydas Alaunė, fitness coach Andrius Daškus and physiotherapist Tomas Svidrius.
Captain and Lithuania defender Algimantė Mikutaitė continues alongside goalkeeper Aušrinė Bikutė; defenders Tereza Romanovskaja and Laura Kubiliūtė; midfielders Andžela Vaičytė, Eitvydė Partikaitė, Marija Galkina, Urtė Bujokaitė and Erika Šupelytė; and forwards Saulutė Railaitė and Meida Proscevičiūtė.
Strengthening youth development, Gintra debuted in Lithuania's women's futsal championship in December and remain unbeaten. Another important challenge comes in spring with a youth-based Women's First League entry.
Working with Šiauliai Sports Gymnasium, the club aim to introduce young athletes to elite competition and help them climb the development pyramid. Prospects can train with the first team, gain theory and practical experience, and improve their skills.
"We approach the season positively, with good energy. Years of hard work, tournaments and meetings are bearing fruit: more young Lithuanian players are joining our system. We have clear goals for both first-team results and youth development, aiming for a team in every age group. Our U11 and U13 girls already compete in championships, and we're ready for a youth-based First League debut in spring," said director Mantas Radavičius.
The players gathered cheerfully at Šiauliai's indoor athletics arena, shared holiday stories and began work. Head coach Petkov and captain Mikutaitė offered thoughts on the new beginning.