Jenna Markham has departed Exeter City Women’s team after a highly successful spell in red and white.
Markham signed for City in September 2022, starring at St James Park as she hit her first two goals to guide the Grecians to victory over AFC Bournemouth. The forward struck 15 goals in only 24 appearances in her first season, a goal in the Devon County Cup Final against Plymouth Argyle one of the standout moments that led to Markham collecting the Young Player of the Year award.
With the Grecians just missing out on promotion, Markham stormed into the new season in impressive form, hitting her first senior career hat trick in a rout against Torquay United at the Exwick Sports Hub.
Another St James Park double followed in victory over Moneyfields, it was another treble at Southampton in early October as Markham raced to the top of the division’s goalscoring charts. A crucial leveller at AFC Bournemouth set City up for the title run in, with the forward finishing on 29 goals, almost double that of her first season, as City claimed promotion. A Player’s Player and Fans Player double award was due acknowledgement for a fantastic season for the young striker.
Tenacious, brave, tireless and menacing, Markham’s energy has been the driving force behind many City victories during her two-year spell, with the City number nine popular among supporters young and old.
Everyone at Exeter City extends their gratitude to Jenna for her role in growing the game in the City and helping the team to achieve promotion, she leaves a history maker. We wish Jenna well for the future, she will always be welcome at St James Park.
Women's first team manager Abbie Britton said:
“Jenna was a huge part of the team over the last two seasons and it was joy to watch her flourish and score some crucial goals which ultimately helped us achieve promotion last year. "
Jenna said:
"After an incredible two seasons at City my time has come to an end. I joined the club at what felt like a very low point, having lost my love for the game as well as my confidence.
Coming into a team with such friendly people and positive atmosphere easily became a turning point for me, and quickly I began to enjoy football more than I ever have.
I want to thank the staff, the players and the fans for making my time as special as it was. I’m truly grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given by management and the club which has enabled me to grow and develop as a player, but I feel it’s time for a new challenge.
The ongoing and increased support from the fans has motivated me the past two years and driven the team to achieve our goal of promotion last season.
I am lucky to have made lifelong friendships during my time here and play alongside such a talented squad. The club will always have a special place in my heart and I wish the team nothing but success for the future."