Before travelling to Rome's Caput Mundi 2024 tournament, held from 26 February to 1 March, Gintra introduce another newcomer. Kaya Hawkinson, 23, who holds US and Philippine passports, will wear yellow and black this season.
The central midfielder has arrived in Šiauliai and joined training. She will wear number 2.
Born in the USA, Hawkinson began her sporting career in Los Angeles. Her mother is Filipino and her father American. In 2022, she accepted an invitation from the Philippines national team coach to represent the country.
After graduating in the USA, where she represented California State University, Fullerton, Hawkinson began her overseas career in Australia, playing for Central Coast Mariners last season.
She described that period as an intriguing challenge that provided valuable experience, greater physical strength and a more varied style.
"Australian football is quite physical, which pushed me to demand more versatility and aggression from myself. I don't regret that first choice: I developed, had a good experience and attracted European interest, where I wanted to continue," said the Philippines midfielder, who turns 24 in April.
K. Hawkinson jau teko būti Europoje, kur ji su Filipinų rinktine žaidė kontrolines rungtynes Slovėnijoje.
"I didn't hesitate over the national team's invitation. I'm a citizen of the Philippines as well as the USA. If I was needed, I felt I should take the chance."
Recommendations and the club's professionalism encouraged her to join the Lithuanian champions.
"My agent assured me Gintra are professional, have deep traditions and years of Champions League experience. Positive feedback from other sources convinced me to pack my bags," smiled the newcomer, eager to debut.
Her debut is approaching: the team's first Rome tournament match is against the Canadian club on 26 February.
"Kaya is a more defensive central midfielder, exactly the position we wanted to strengthen. She is young, has potential, leadership qualities and a strong desire to prove herself. Her Philippines call-up is another positive sign. We hope she settles well and quickly becomes important," said director Mantas Radavičius.