Defender Ella Hilliard linked up with Derby County Women ahead of the 2022/23 season as part of a scholarship with the University of Derby.
Hilliard joined Derby having previously had spells in the South West with both Bristol City and Cardiff City. She enjoyed a fine debut season with Derby and made 18 appearances in total, scoring twice.
Hilliard, who is a centre-back, has represented Wales at youth international level.
She had a successful loan spell with FA Women's National League Division One Midlands side Peterborough United during the second half of the 2023/24 season but returned to come back into Sam Griffiths’ thoughts for the 2024/25 season.
