DUFCW | Cusack and Christie Pen New Deals

Dundee United FC Women are delighted to announce the first steps in a new era, as two of our players have become the first to sign part-time professional contracts ahead of the new season.

Defender Abbie Cusack and midfielder Summer Christie have signed contracts to remain at the club, with Abbie Cusack signing permanently following a loan spell last season.

Cusack Signs Permanent Deal

Cusack, 20, came through the youth ranks at Celtic before heading to Foundation Park on loan last August and the club are delighted to secure her signature on a permanent basis.

Abbie made her senior debut in a goalless draw against Hibernian before going on to make 28 appearances during the course of last season’s SWPL1 campaign.

Speaking after signing, Cusack said “I enjoyed my time here last season, and it feels great to sign here permanently.”

“I had a few chats with Suzy that were really positive. I think, with what was said and the way the club is looking to move forward, it was the best place for me.”

“Being one of the first to sign a contract means a lot to me, because all I want to do is be a footballer.”

“Pre-season has been tough, but I feel it’s been beneficial going into the new season. I just want to improve as much as I can and help the team remain in the top-flight again.”

A Third Season For Summer

Summer Christie, 20, is entering her third season at the club.

After penning her first contract, the midfielder is eager to get back on the pitch after a season curtailed by injury.

"It’s amazing, I’m really delighted to sign a contract, I’m looking forward to the season coming and progressing as a player.”

“It’s massive, as you can see, the league is just getting more competitive, more and more teams are making that step and I think it’s great that Dundee United are going the same way.”

“This is a great club and a superb place to be, it’s been a great environment the first few days of pre-season.”

“I’ve loved my time at the club so far, last season was quite challenging, picking up an injury at the start of February. I missed a large part of the relegation battle, which was tough because you want to get on that pitch and help your teammates.”

“I just want to contribute as much as possible this season, with the league reconstruction it’s going to be tough. Every game is going to be a challenge, but we will set up our game plan so we can finish as high as possible.”

On the announcement of the first players to sign part-time professional deals with the club, Dundee United FC Womens Team Head Coach Suzy Shepherd commented: “Delighted for Abbie and Summer to be the first ever women to sign a professional part-time contract with Dundee United. Both players have many great attributes and bring so much to the team on and off the pitch and thoroughly deserve their contracts."

"The club has a vision for their women’s team and this is another step in the right direction. As well as the contracts the players will have a lot more support and resources to help further their development and help them reach their full potential.”

Head of Football Operations Ross Starke added: “Following confirmation of our status as an SWPL1 side for the coming season, it was important that, with the backing of the Chairman, Board and executive leadership of the club, we continue to progress the Womens Team in line with the growth of the game in Scotland.

 Our post-season review identified key areas for further progression and development that were required to be addressed, and we are pleased to confirm the first of our players to sign part-time professional contracts with the club. I am delighted that Abbie and Summer have become the first players to do so in this important step in the development of the team.

As we continue our preparations for our third straight season in SWPL1, we look forward to announcing further additions to the squad in the coming days and weeks.”