Jodie Drake calls time on time with Norwich City Women

Drake, a midfielder, joined Norwich in 2008 as a member of the Centre of Excellence when she was just nine years old. Over the years, she has experienced both triumphs and setbacks with the team. She credits much of the squad’s progression to the full integration with the men’s side and the arrival of Flo Allen as general manager. Last season, Drake was a non-playing member of the squad after giving birth, but she made a significant return this season by scoring off the bench in Norwich’s win over Cambridge United in the FAWNL League Cup. Despite her return, Drake had previously admitted that football had taken a backseat to other priorities, so it came as a surprise when she announced her retirement.

In her 14 years at the club, Drake has seen significant changes and praised the development of the squad during her time. She had previously felt that football had taken a backseat to other priorities. Drake’s return to the team this season was certainly a momentous occasion, given her previous struggles to balance her personal life with her career as a footballer. Her contributions were celebrated by the City Women team, who presented her with a framed shirt to commemorate her 14 years at the club. Drake’s retirement marked the end of an era for Norwich, but her impact on the team was certainly felt and appreciated.

It’s clear that Drake’s time with Norwich has been filled with both challenges and successes. Her experience as a non-playing member of the squad after giving birth reflects the struggles of balancing personal life with a professional career. Despite these challenges, Drake made a triumphant return to the team this season, scoring a significant goal in Norwich’s win over Cambridge United. Her retirement, while unexpected, marked the end of a 14-year journey with the team, during which she played an important role in the squad’s development.

Throughout her time with Norwich, Drake has seen the squad develop and grow, often attributing this progression to full integration with the men’s side and the arrival of Flo Allen as general manager. Her retirement may mark the end of her time as a player, but her influence on the team will undoubtedly continue to be felt. The presentation of a framed shirt to Drake by her team members served as a fitting tribute to her 14 years at the club and highlighted the impact she had on the team. While her retirement marks the end of an era for Norwich, it also serves as a celebration of Drake’s impressive career with the team.