Star forward to leave Wigan Athletic Women - 'Not my decision'
Wigan Athletic Women's have confirmed their retained list following the conclusion of the 2025/26 campaign – with the departure of player of the year Molly Hassall being the stand-out.
Hassall, who had been one of the side's star players since its inception two years ago, is one of half a dozen players who will move on to pastures new.
She scored 28 goals and contributed 19 assists last season, and notched a half century of goals over the course of both campaigns.
Also bidding farewell are Faye Moseley, Niniola Dada, Antonio Carta, Freya Birley and Kerry Morris, following the expiration of their existing deals.
Hayley Turner, head of women's operations, said: “As we close the chapter on an unforgettable 2025/26 season, I would like to thank every player and member of staff for their commitment, hard work, and passion.
"Winning the league title and reaching two cup finals are remarkable achievements and a true reflection of the hard work, resilience, and togetherness shown throughout the season.
“A special thank you goes to our departing players. Molly Hassall and Faye Moseley have both played a role in the early development of Wigan Athletic Women over the past two seasons, contributing to the club’s growth and progress.
"We also thank Kerry Morris and Freya Birley for their contribution during the 2025/26 season. We wish them all the best for the future. We would also like to thank two departing members of staff, JP Ditchfield and Lauren Beckford.
“Promotion to Tier 6 of the women's football pyramid, competing in the North West Women's Regional Football League Division One North, and the opportunity to compete in the Women's FA Cup are significant milestones that everyone connected with the club can be proud of.”
Some 17 players have been offered new deals ahead of the new season - Amelia Knowles, Laura Heslip, Jess Cooke, Abbie Moore, Libby McCoy, Flossie Jones, Hannah Forster, Avagrace Hodson, Grace Carr, Holly Mason, Izzy Worswick, Alyson Hastie, Becky Abbott, Ellie Cleary, Emily Firman, Sophie Whelan, Kaitlyn Millward.
Hassall had last week confirmed she would be leaving the club - and that it was 'not my decision'.
"Just a quick message to the fans...unfortunately my time has come to an end at Wigan," she posted on social media. "This was not my decision and has come as a huge shock to me and my family, and I’m sure to some of you guys too.
"Football isn’t over for me though - I’m more dedicated than ever. I wish the club huge success and wish all the players luck for the seasons ahead. Thank you to all the fans who supported us. Shown up week in week out. Voted me the player of the year. It means the world. And thank you to my team-mates, old and new, who I’ve been lucky to play on the pitch with. Remember the name!"
Moseley posted: “The past two seasons with Wigan have been brilliant! For now, it’s time for me to move on to find more consistent minutes elsewhere. Proud to have been a part of the club and community. Most importantly, it was a pleasure playing football with the girls.”