Justin Donawa Looks Back On Pro Career
Justin Donawa said he is grateful for his time in English football after leaving Hereford to return home for family reasons.
The 29-year-old Bermuda winger joined the Enterprise National League North side in January after his release from Brackley Town, signing on the same day as fellow Bermudian Keziah Martin.
Donawa made 14 appearances for Hereford, scoring in a 5-2 victory over Chester.
“I didn’t exactly know when this part of my life would come to a close, but I’m so grateful to have been able to live out a dream that so many kids have of playing professionally,” Donawa wrote on social media.
“It has allowed me to see and do things I never thought I would and meet some amazing people along the way.
“There were many ups and downs, but I wouldn’t change the past seven years for the world.
“Thank you to all the team-mates, managers and clubs that have given me opportunities and helped me along the way. Looking forward to the next chapter!”
Hereford manager Aaron Downes praised Donawa’s contribution and professionalism.
“I’ve got so much respect and admiration for Justin and the way he’s handled himself,” Downes said.
“He’s come over from a small island to fulfil a dream that he set out as a young boy, to play football in England. He achieved that and I respect him for that.
“I understand myself, coming from a small town in Australia, how hard that is.”
Donawa, whose partner is Bermuda women’s national team winger Keunna Dill, played for English teams such as Darlington, Brackley Town and Solihull Moors.
The couple have a one-year-old daughter called Kaori.
