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Top storyWomen’s football development at core of ownership transfer
The top two divisions of professional women’s football in England have been transferred to an independent company which is set to “spearhead a new era in the sport”.
Women’s Professional Leagues Limited (WPLL) has taken over responsibility for the Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship from the Football Association (FA).
“The next successful era of the women’s professional game will be built on the foundations of collaboration and we are excited to work together with all stakeholders to drive transformational and sustainable growth across our leagues by leveraging the distinctive qualities, values and principles which exist in the women’s game,” said WPLL Chief Executive Nikki Doucet.
“Women’s football in England has witnessed unprecedented growth in recent years, marked by increased fan engagement, rising attendance at matches, and a surge in participation at all levels. We are fiercely committed to building on this momentum by creating a thriving landscape which prioritises the welfare and development of players, fosters and excites a vibrant fan community, and nurtures the sport’s growth.”
“Women’s football in England has witnessed unprecedented growth in recent years, marked by increased fan engagement, rising attendance at matches, and a surge in participation at all levels."
The move is aimed at driving growth and maximising potential in women’s football.
The creation of the WPLL means that for the first time in England, there is an independent and dedicated organisation which is solely focused on advancing women’s football.
It is stated that the position will allow the company to prioritise the sport’s development.
The WPLL has also committed to “fostering a thriving community around women’s football”.
“We are very proud of the growth that, together with the clubs, we have driven in the women’s professional game,” said FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham.
“I would like to thank everyone who has worked tirelessly to establish and evolve our leagues to be amongst the best in the world.
“Now is the opportunity for Nikki to lead the next phase of growth, with an independent company purely focused on women’s professional football.
“I have no doubt that she and the team will take the leagues to new heights and we look forward to supporting them on this exciting journey.”
“We are very proud of the growth that, together with the clubs, we have driven in the women’s professional game."
WPLL will be supported by the men’s Premier League through a cooperation and funding agreement that includes a £20m ($26m/€23.5m) interest-free loan to invest in the development of long-term projects.
This is in addition to the £21m that the Premier League is investing into developing the women’s and girls’ game between 2022 and 2025.
“The Premier League is proud to develop the game at all levels and in recent years we have enhanced our support for women’s and girls’ football,” said Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters.
“This ranges from investing in the development of pathways for young players to support for the professional game. We look forward to being closely involved in this exciting period for women’s football.”
Image: James Boyes, CC BY 2.0