Peterborough United Women are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Hannah Dawbarn from the University of Miami, ahead of the 2024/25 FA Women’s National League Division One Midlands campaign.
The 22-year-old is a former Arsenal player who has spent the last four years at the University of Miami with a range of professional experience, including representing England 18s from 2018 to 2019.
The midfielder is looking forward to the new challenge and can’t wait to get started: “I’ve heard a lot of good things about the ambition of the club and their professionalism. Jake’s aim to be promoted and to compete at the top of this league was really attractive to me because obviously I want to win and getting promoted sounds like a really exciting goal for the season.
“I’ve been in Miami for four years and it’s definitely been a learning experience, especially with all the coaching I received.I feel like I’ve developed a lot as a player and as a person. I’ve been through some injuries too, which have been difficult, but overall it’s been really good. Sometimes I had to pinch myself that I was living in Miami."
Dawbarn spoke on her career so far and her readiness to return to England: “Up until I was eleven, I played for a local boys team, then I went for a trial at Arsenal. From 11-18, I played for Arsenal’s academy and I was also able to represent England Under 18s. At Arsenal I got to train alongside Arsenal Women and also made a few appearances for the First Team. I remember playing alongside Vivianne Miedema, Beth Mead, Daniëlle van de Donk, Katie McCabe and Leah Williamson.
“I love getting on the ball and I always look to pass forward when I can. I like to get stuck in too and make some tackles, but mostly I like being on the ball, being calm and composed and helping the team build an attack.
“I can’t wait to meet the rest of the team in person. Everyone’s been really welcoming- they all seem really nice and I’m really excited to play alongside them and get to know them as people as well.
“I’m so ready to get stuck in. At the moment I’m playing on a summer team in Miami to help get myself back after my injury. I’m feeling like my body’s really ready, fit and strong and ready to go.”
Manager Jake Poole said: “I’m really excited to have a player of Hannah’s calibre joining the club. She comes with a wealth of professional experience, both from her time playing for England and Arsenal and also from a top university in America. Hannah’s a defensive midfielder with great technical quality on the ball and I’m really looking forward to working with her this season.”
General Manager Sam Winch added: "I'm delighted that Jake has managed to secure the services of Hannah Dawbarn. She is a player that will very quickly become a fan favourite, adding versatility and experience to the squad. Welcome to the club Hannah.”