Sunderland AFC Ladies’ new head coach, Carlton Fairweather, has taken charge of his first pre-season training session with the squad.
Fairweather, appointed last week, is being supported in his new role by Melanie Reay, who takes up the position of assistant head coach.
Last season saw the team make a stunning debut in FA WSL2, winning the league title, whilst losing just two games along the way and this season they will compete against the best teams in the country as they make the step up to FA WSL1.
The new season is set to kick off in March, with Sunderland now lining up against the top women’s sides in the country, including Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool. As the Ladies continue their transition to the top flight, a new chairman has also been appointed, with SAFC director Per-Magnus Andersson taking on the role, with immediate effect.
Speaking about Sunderland AFC Ladies, Per-Magnus said: “Interest in the women’s game is growing significantly and securing promotion to the top flight as champions was a fantastic achievement for the women’s team.
“I am both proud and delighted to be taking on the role of chairman as they begin their WSL1 journey and I am looking forward to the season ahead.”
Special cut-price season tickets for the new WSL1 season are on sale for a limited time only (until end of January), at just £38 for adults and £12 for under 21s and over 65s. Family season tickets are also available for £90/£45, allowing entry for two adults and two children or one adult and one child.
Fans can purchase their season tickets online at www.SAFC.com/ladies