Dear Scotland, 

The time has come.

For now, it fills me with enormous pride to pass on the shirt for the legacy to continue. 

One of my standout memories is joyfully playing on the grass at Pittodrie stadium, nearly 30 years ago. Unaware of the significance it would hold in my heart and the beginning of my first love.

Since then, football has fulfilled many roles in my life; it’s been the escape of worry, a reliable best friend, the offset of stress, the beginning of unthinkable dreams, the introduction to some of my dearest friendships, and a place that’s always felt like a sanctuary to my identity.

Youthful afternoons at Hazlehead park are still the place I love returning to when I come back home.

Many days spent training on concrete car parks, temporary goals made with left-behind traffic cones.

 

The rapid evolution of where the game is now excites me and fuels my passion for seeing what boundless future exists for those now embarking on their own beginnings. 

It’s been my greatest privilege to play for you for so many years; the memories precious. The sport we love, the Country we love even more.

Our prized strength; our Scottishness. A shared bond that others speak of, but only we know.

To represent Scotland has been my proudest honour. I am unconditionally grateful to everyone who’s made every experience possible, from my very first cap, to the last. 

To those before me, thank you for leading the way with passion, ambition and integrity. 

To the next, be courageous and fearless. 

Always, Rachel.