Paide Women signed Kennedy Avery Mayo after facing loss of key players

Paide Linnanaiskond had considered signing a foreign player since reaching Estonia’s top flight, but the club acted only when two key players looked set to leave, sporting director Gert Kams said. The club announced the arrival of 23-year-old American forward Kennedy Avery Mayo on 18 September, making her the first foreign player in its history.

Mayo had played for Arizona State University and San Jose State University, as well as California Storm. Her move to Estonia was her first contract abroad, and she scored four goals in her first four appearances for Paide. “We had thought about it ever since the team reached the Meistriliiga. At first, we may not have been ready,” Kams said.

Paide’s need for reinforcements grew as sisters Aleksandra and Nicole Kelli prepared to join Italian Serie C side Tharros in September. That move fell through after the Sardinian club was denied the licence required to compete in the league. Aleksandra returned to Paide to finish the season, while Nicole stayed in Italy to look for another club. “We realised we could be without two very good players, and discussed bringing someone in to strengthen the team for the rest of the season,” Kams said.

Source: soccernet.ee