It is shaping up to be an exciting season for Moneyfields as they announce that they will move towards a semi-professional model with players being paid as they seek to eclipse their record-breaking season.
The club have been building to this day by increasing the women’s budget each season, with the club’s board being inspired by the Lionesses’ European Championships victory in 2022. Adding that this is a step towards parity and equality between the men’s and women’s teams.
First Team Manager, Karl Watson, said, “Our players can now look forward to becoming semi-professional paid players. The players have the same jobs and financial and domestic burdens, so it is only right that we strive to move towards Parity & Equality.
“Don’t get me wrong it’s not a full-time salary by any stretch but it is a huge step in the right direction. Of all the things that we’ve achieved at this club I think this is the one I’m most proud of.”
I have long argued that clubs should be investing in their players as much as their resources and facilities so this is great to hear. While I don’t expect any of these players to be giving up their day job, I love that Moneyfields are recognising the worth of their players.
Captain, Charley Wilson-Wilton added, “I have been in the game for a long time now and I still remember having to pay considerable sums just to be able to play, much like many players are still doing today.
“At that point in my career, I’ll be honest, I didn’t see a time when I would be paid to do what I love. We have seen the likes of Lewes set the tone for equality and I’m proud that my club recognises the value of its women’s team and is moving towards a parity and equality model.
“With this increased investment there will also be added pressure but as the Billie Jean King quote goes, pressure is a privilege.”
She is not wrong, there will be a target on their back within the FA WNL Division One South West but there is enough quality within their squad to continue putting pressure on AFC Bournemouth next year, while also putting pressure on other clubs around them to invest if they want to push on and challenge for the third tier.
Moneyfields Women begin their 2024/25 season at the end of August and expect to have moved into their newly refurbished home, the John Jenkins stadium in time for the start of pre-season. Check out the progress here.
