Returning from the summer break to prepare for Champions League qualifying, Gintra have made their first addition: Finnish central midfielder Anni Rusanen, 27, who stands 165 cm tall and will wear number 13.
Having played in Italy last season, she has arrived and joined training. Her contract will take effect after a trial period.
Rusanen began with her hometown team in Espoo before representing William Carey University in US college football. After graduating, she played in Iceland and then Italy.
"I'm finally here and happy to join. This is a new career challenge I really value, and I hope to settle quickly," she said after her first session.
Before signing, Rusanen spoke with head coach Olli-Pekka Ojala.
"I wanted to hear his vision, understand what was expected and make sure I would feel comfortable. Although we're from the same country, we had never spoken before and met in Lithuania. I've lived away from Finland for years, so it's natural our paths hadn't crossed," she smiled.
Anni offers stamina, determination and strong one-on-one skills. She values hard work and says persistence, willpower and character have accompanied her throughout her career.
"Some days things simply don't work, but you can compensate for certain mistakes with maximum energy and commitment. That's my rule: whatever happens, I fight for my team until the end," she emphasised.
Her spells in Iceland and Italy were different and relatively short, but valuable both personally and professionally.
"The countries differ in culture, climate and food, and the football is contrasting too. Iceland emphasises physicality and contact, like the USA. Italy uses technical advantages, quick decisions and creating situations in tight spaces. Everywhere I try to learn something useful, understand the culture and fit in. This is my first time in Lithuania, and I can't wait to know the country, city and people better. I like what I see and think it will suit me. Gintra's professionalism is clear from arrival. I'm really looking forward to my debut."
Asked whom she supported in the recent men's European Championship, she immediately answered: "England. I like tough physical battles, athleticism and less play-acting. I was in England for the final, but unfortunately couldn't celebrate victory with the locals," she smiled.
Rusanen draws inspiration from Argentine legend Lionel Messi and welcomed Argentina's South American championship victory.
"He's a unique talent with so much to teach. When younger, I watched closely and tried adapting elements of his game. Now I understand my style is different and must use my strengths differently to help the team as much as possible," she said.
"Injuries and other circumstances left gaps during the first half of the season. With the summer window open, we're addressing them and hope for greater depth and competition. Anni is determined, quick and professional. We hope she brings stability, confidence and physicality," said director Mantas Radavičius.
Šiauliai hosts UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying on 4–7 September. In Group 3, the Lithuanian champions compete for one place in the main tournament against legendary Scottish club Celtic, Finnish champions KuPS Kuopio and Moldovan league winners Agarista CSF.
Gintra face Agarista CSF in the semi-final. Stand with the team: every supporter's presence will be especially important! Buy your tickets now through this link.
