Gintra welcome another newcomer: athletic American striker Trista Seara, 26, who will wear number 22 for the Lithuanian champions.
After recent difficulties, Gintra had been actively seeking attacking reinforcements. Seara quickly travelled to Lithuania once an agreement was reached. Already experienced in Europe, she spent last season with Turkey's top-flight Kdz Eregl, having previously played for clubs in Spain, Greece and Japan.
"Trista's experience at high-level professional clubs in Europe and Asia was a major advantage and gives us hope she will settle quickly. Recent matches showed we need sharper attacking play and better finishing, so we hope she can fill that gap," said director Mantas Radavičius.
Born in New York, the 173 cm player moved to Europe after graduating in the USA, established herself there and later tested herself in Japan's women's league.
"Japan was a unique experience where I learned a great deal. The culture is distinctive and the football standard very high. We made club history by winning our first Empress Cup. I then moved to Turkey's top division and faced powerful clubs. After Gintra invited me, I spoke with Rashida, who had recently joined. Her positive feedback made the decision easy. I'm versatile: I can finish attacks and help create them. I'll play wherever the coaches see my greatest potential. I know the team have had a difficult run and strongly believe we'll end it soon," said the upbeat newcomer.
Seara is expected to debut this weekend against Vilnius MFA Žalgiris-MRU in the Baltic League third-place match. Kick-off at Šiauliai Central Stadium is at 18:00 on Saturday.
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.