Tributes have been pouring in after the sudden death of former Newcastle United Women's goalkeeper Dominyka Podziute. The shot-stopper was well-known across the region after also playing for the likes of Hartlepool, Seaham Coast and Chester le Street in recent years.
Newcastle Women's Twitter account paid tribute on Friday morning, writing: "We are devastated to hear of the passing of our former player Dominyka Podziute. Dom was a much loved member of the squad during her time at the club, and will be sorely missed across North East football. Our thoughts are with Dom’s family and friends at this difficult time."
Newcastle Men's team also wrote: "Extremely sad news. Rest in peace, Dom."
Podziute had recently signed to play for Chester le Street Town, a Northern League Division 2 team based in Hartlepool. They said in a statement: "It is with deep sadness that we have today learned that Dominyka Podziute who recently signed for our Ladies section @CLSTladies1 from Hartlepool United Women @Official_HUWFC has sadly passed away. Thoughts and condolences are with her family and playing colleagues at this time."
Hartlepool United's Women's side added: "We are saddened to hear the news that one of our former players Dominyka Podziute has sadly passed away, our thoughts and sincere condolences are with her family at this deeply sad time."
Players, coaches and staff from all of Podziute's former teams have been invited to Chester le Street Town's stadium on Sunday evening to lay flowers on the pitch in her honour. The club have also urged fans to arrive wearing club colours, where they will celebrate Podziute 'on the pitch where she enjoyed life the most.'
