Exeter City are delighted to announce that Sophie Gillies has become the first contracted women's player in the club's history!

The striker, who leads the league's golden boot race with 17 goals so far this season, has been in electric form since City's promotion to the third tier, and scored the winner last night against Plymouth Argyle.

All members of the Grecians' team were signed on as semi-professionals in the summer, however Sophie is the first player to be offered and commit to a fixed term contract. Sophie signed her contract at St James Park, joined by Abbie Britton and members of the Women's board.

Thrilled with the news, Abbie Britton said: "We are delighted to have agreed a contract with Sophie, it demonstrates the intent of where we want to go as a football club and Sophie will be an important part of that progression. 

"Sophie has been outstanding on her return to Exeter City and has met the challenge of playing in tier three superbly, she has been a focal point of our attacking play alongside Sarah Stacey."

"Sophie may be the first of our squad to be contracted, but she is on a list of many players that we want to keep at this football club and continue to help us grow."

Executive Chair Jen Dixon said: "It's a crucial point in the development of Exeter City Women and an essential point in the club's investment in the women's game.

"The signing of our first-ever fixed-term contracted player represents a vital step in providing the support, stability and professionalism to help continue our journey.

"The results on the pitch this season have been fantastic and this news underlines our desure to compete at the highest level and inspire the next generation of female footballers in Exeter and beyond."

Sophie will be back in action with her teammates next Sunday, March 23, against Cheltenham Town, as the Grecians return to St James Park! Get your tickets now!