The New Saints are leaping into a new era next season with the confirmation that they will turn semi-professional under new head coach Shauna Duffy.
They are the latest club to invest in their women’s team as they look to return to the Genero Adran Premier top half following a fifth-place finish in 2023/24.
“It’s amazing how the club can give us this backing to bridge the gap with the other top teams and give us a chance to compete,” midfielder Helen Evans said.
“We’ve done well these past three years, but this is one step further, and hopefully it’ll enable us to be at the top of the league and push for Europe.”
“I’m really excited,” added Caitlin Chapman. “It’ll take us even further as a squad and we’re going to grow as a team.”
The developments mean that all the players will be on contracts, giving them more training time on and off the pitch, and greater access to gym facilities plus strength and conditioning expertise.
Duffy, who replaces Greg Draper in the dugout, becomes the only current woman head coach in the Genero Adran Premier.
“This is an extremely exciting time for the continued progression of The New Saints Women on and off the pitch as we look to strive for success in the upcoming season and beyond,” she said.
“This commitment to move to a semi-professional contracted model will be beneficial for all players at the club and ensure we can continue to challenge at higher echelons of the league.
“We are all ready and raring to attack the season ahead, I look forward to welcoming players to our open training sessions next week.”
