Will This Be the Year Newcastle Joins the WSL?

Newcastle United Women's team has experienced a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving from a fourth-tier club to one with ambitions of joining the Women's Super League (WSL). Under the leadership of manager Becky Langley, the team is now focused on achieving top-flight status, having enjoyed significant support and investment since the club's takeover in 2021.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Newcastle United Women aims for promotion to the WSL within five years.
• The club turned professional in 2023 and has made significant investments in infrastructure and players.
• Record crowds at St James' Park demonstrate growing support for women's football in the region.
• Manager Becky Langley has led the team through substantial changes since her appointment.
• The club aims to balance ambition with community ties, despite recent player turnover.

A Journey of Transformation

Newcastle United Women’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Just a few years ago, the team was struggling in the obscurity of the fourth tier of women's football. Fast forward to today, and the Magpies are firmly focused on reaching the WSL, the pinnacle of women's football in England. Manager Becky Langley, who has been at the helm since before the club's significant takeover in 2021, reflects on the evolution, stating, "We have to be ambitious. This club needs this team in the WSL as soon as possible."

From Druid Park to Professional Status

When Langley first took charge, Newcastle United Women played their matches at Druid Park, a ground that lacked the facilities and atmosphere of a professional club. The noise from planes overhead and the limited capacity painted a picture of a team striving for recognition. Langley involved her family in the team’s operations, with her grandmother and mother helping wash kits and manage matchday finances.

The pivotal year came with the club's takeover, which promised a new era of ambition and professionalism. Co-owner Amanda Staveley outlined a five-year plan aimed at securing a place in the WSL, marking a significant turning point for the women's side. In August 2022, the team officially became part of Newcastle United, allowing Langley to work full-time as manager.

Investment and Professionalism

With the transition to a professional setup in 2023, Newcastle United Women began to attract higher-calibre players and improve their facilities significantly. Kingston Park was announced as the team's home ground, shared with the Newcastle Falcons rugby union team. However, due to pitch regulations in the newly branded WSL2, they currently play at Gateshead International Stadium. Langley praised the investment made by the club to enhance the stadium experience, stating, "The grass was like St James' Park... the infrastructure around Gateshead is good, in terms of investment in the changing rooms and the pitch."

Building a Competitive Squad

Newcastle's ambition is reflected in its recruitment strategy, with the club signing notable players such as Jordan Nobbs, a record top-flight appearance holder, and two-time USA World Cup winner Morgan Gautrat. These signings signal the club's intent to compete at the highest level. However, the ambition also led to a significant turnover of players, with 12 departing at the end of the 2024-25 season. Club captain Grace Donnelly and on-pitch captain Amber-Keegan Stobbs were among those released, leading to mixed reactions from fans.

Lee Lawler from NUFC Fans TV noted, "A lot of the fanbase was pretty upset with the way [the departures] were announced. It could have been handled a bit better." The challenge for the club is to balance the introduction of talent while maintaining the community ties that local players represent.

The Future of the Club

The ambition within Newcastle United Women is palpable, with the team now on the cusp of realising its dreams. The recent expansion of the WSL, which will see three clubs promoted in the 2026-27 season, provides an exciting opportunity for Newcastle to achieve their goals. Starting the current campaign with a 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest, the team faced a challenging draw against Sheffield United before gearing up for a crucial match against promotion-chasing Birmingham.

Record Crowds and Growing Support

Newcastle's ascent in women's football has not gone unnoticed, with record attendance figures signalling increased support. The historic match against Sunderland at St James' Park attracted 38,502 fans, setting a record for women's football in England's second tier. Lawler commented, "We are breaking records all the time... just look at the attendance for the derby last season."

This growing support is crucial as the club seeks to establish itself firmly within the women's game and push for promotion. The backing from fans and the community plays an integral role in the team's ambitions.

Conclusion

As Newcastle United Women continues to evolve, it remains committed to its goal of reaching the WSL within five years. The mixture of ambition, investment, and community spirit presents a promising future for the team. With the right blend of talent and support, Newcastle could soon find itself competing among the elite of women's football in England. What does the future hold for Newcastle United Women as they strive for greatness?

#NewcastleWomen #WSL #WomensFootball

FAQs

What is the aim of Newcastle United Women?

The aim of Newcastle United Women is to secure promotion to the Women's Super League (WSL) within five years, driven by investment and ambition from the club's management.

Who is the current manager of Newcastle United Women?

The current manager of Newcastle United Women is Becky Langley, who has been instrumental in the team's development and professionalisation since her appointment.

Where do Newcastle United Women play their home matches?

Newcastle United Women currently play their home matches at Gateshead International Stadium due to pitch regulations, although Kingston Park was announced as their home ground when they turned professional in 2023.

What changes occurred after the club's takeover in 2021?

The takeover in 2021 led to increased investment in the women's team, allowing them to turn professional, improve facilities, and attract higher-calibre players to the squad.

How has fan support impacted Newcastle United Women?

Fan support has significantly increased, with record attendance numbers at matches, highlighting the growing interest in women's football and providing the team with a strong backing as they pursue their goals.