Newcastle United Women make history by becoming first professional team in third tier
Newcastle United Women will become the first full-time professional football club in FA Women’s National League history ahead of the 2023/24 season.
The move comes one year on from the club becoming an official part of Newcastle United Football Club and the teams recent promotion to the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division.
The Magpies achieved promotion last season after claiming the Division One North title whilst being a semi-professional outfit.
The move to turn professional outlines Newcastle’s intention of growing all areas of the club under the Saudi-backed ownership.
Head of Women’s football Su Cumming and head coach Becky Langley now have their sights firmly set on leading the team to the Women’s Super League.
That could be helped by the players being handed competitive salaries, more training opportunities and access to professional equipment, meaning they can dedicate more time to the club.
"This is a monumental moment for Newcastle United Women and the FA Women's National League,” Langley told the club's official website.
"We hope to be a leading light in the movement towards professionalism in the women's game and inspire women and girls who dream of pursuing a career in football.”
Newcastle United chief executive officer Darren Eales shared his delight at the history-making move.
"This is an historic moment for our Newcastle United family and for the women’s game regionally, nationally and beyond," he said.
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"Newcastle United Women is a hugely important part of our vision for the club, and this is the right step at the right time as we strive for sustainable success.
"I’d like to thank our owners for their incredible support and congratulate Su, Becky and all the players and staff for their achievements so far. We look forward to the exciting journey ahead.”
Newcastle United's sporting director Dan Ashworth added: "The success of Newcastle United Women is an integral part of our sporting objectives and we are delighted to support the team's progress by building a professional model around them.
"Becky and the players have shown incredible dedication, and turning full-time will enable them to fully concentrate on their careers and the next chapter of Newcastle United Women as fully supported professionals."
"We have worked incredibly hard to get here and I'm so excited to work with the players as we help them to be the best athletes they can be."
