Latest Midlands Women's Football News For Monday 8th February 2010 Compiled By Glenn Lawrence Got a Soccer News Story? You would like to share with us! Then please email it too - newsroom@ladiessoccer.co.uk EVERTON YOUNGSTER HOPES FOR SHIRT Everton Ladies' teenager Toni Duggan hopes her current form will be enough to earn herself a place in Manager Mo Marley's the starting line-up for Thursday's showpiece Women's Premier League Cup final. With just days to go until the Toffees aim to lift their first piece of silverware of the current campaign, striker Duggan is hoping her recent form in-front of goal will help in her crusade to be involved in the game right from the kick-off, And if she does achieve that feat it will be Duggan's first taste of full cup final action, having come off the bench as a late substitute when the Everton last heisted the trophy back in 2008 "It was amazing, all the girls were delighted with a bit of silverware for the Club," revealed Duggan "It hadn't been won in a long time so it was a happy moment. But I don't think it feels the same when you come on from the bench, so I'll be quite happy if I start. It will be a better feeling" Liverpudlian Duggan joined her home town club as an 11 year old, coming up through the clubs' Centre of Excellence ranks and aspiring onto the first team. She has also represented England at Junior level right through from Under-15 to Under-20 levels. The 18-year-old, who bagged a hat-trick in Everton's 7-0 victory over Portsmouth Ladies in the FA Women's Cup at the weekend believes Thursday nights' opponents' Leeds Carnegie will be stronger opposition for Everton Ladies adding "the Blues cannot underestimate their opposition ahead of the game, It will be a tough game against Leeds, but it will be a good one, and we're looking forward to it," Duggan continued "I think it's going to be important to get friends and family there and do well in front of the crowd, so I'm sure it will be a good turn out. This season I was aiming to score a couple more goals than last season, and I think I've done that. It's set us up nicely for Thursday and our defence is full of confidence now leading to the final. I think we're set as a team, so we're happy, there's a good team bond, and I think it shows on the pitch. I think we've just got to keep building that" Only time will tell if Duggan's dream cup final debut aspirations come to fruition. However, few would argue there was more the Youngster could have done than produce an eye-catching performance to be knocking on the door for a starting shirt in Thursdays' showpiece final at Spotland. ENGLAND NAME CYPRUS CUP SQUAD England head coach Hope Powell has now named the squad she hopes will retain the Cyprus Cup when the "Three Lions" travel to Larnaca later this month. England play South Africa on 24th February, Canada 26th February and Switzerland 1st March as they continue their FIFA Women's World Cup Qualifying preparations for the upcoming double-header against Austria on 25th March and Spain on 1st April respectively. Powell put 31 players through their paces in January's La Manga training camp session and will now be savouring the prospect of her team acquiring some much needed valuable match-practice in Cyprus. England lifted the Cyprus Cup Trophy just twelve months ago and 18 members of that jubilant winning squad have been retained while Powell has drafted in four additional players Karen Bardsley, Dunia Susi, Laura Bassett and Jody Handley. Hope Powell has brought back 30-year-old Arsenal left winger Rachel Yankey, who is recalled after her shock omission from the England squad for last year's European Championship finals, Yankey, who is England's most-capped current international player was also overlooked for the following World Cup qualifiers against Malta and Turkey, Yankey will be looking forward to winning her 90th cap as England defends the trophy. Squad in full; Karen Bardsley (Sky Blue FC), Rachel Brown (Everton), Siobhan Chamberlain (Chelsea), Alex Scott (Boston Breakers), Dunia Susi (Chelsea), Rachel Unitt (Everton), Casey Stoney (Chelsea), Faye White (Arsenal), Laura Bassett (Leeds Carnegie), Lindsay Johnson (Everton), Jill Scott (Everton), Fara Williams (Everton), Emily Westwood (Everton), Katie Chapman (Arsenal), Kelly Smith (Boston Breakers), Dani Buet (Chelsea), Sue Smith (Leeds Carnegie), Lianne Sanderson (Chelsea), Eniola Aluko (Saint Louis Athletica), Rachel Yankey (Arsenal), Jess Clarke (Leeds Carnegie), Jody Handley (Everton) ARSENAL LADIES GET GERMAN DATE Arsenal Ladies will play the second leg of there UEFA Women's Champions League Quarter Final against FCR 2001 Duisburg on Sunday, March 14, 2010, Kick-off: 1pm at Boreham Wood FC. The first leg takes place in Germany four days earlier on Wednesday 10th March. FCR 2001 Duisburg are one of Germany's Top Women's teams. SUNDAYS GAMES Results Round-Up now updated with West Midlands scores on-line. MIDLANDS COMBINATION The draw for the league cup is as follows, ties to be played on Sunday 7th March 2010 1pm Kick Off, Both Leicester City Ladies and Stoke City Ladies have been given a bye into the next round. Copsewood (Coventry) v Rotherham United Coventry City v Wolverhampton Wanderers Loughborough Foxes v Crewe Alexander Radcliffe Olympic v The New Saints Ladies Sporting Club Albion v Leafield Athletic IRELAND TO HOST FRANCE IN FRIENDLY The Football Association of Ireland has confirmed that the Republic of Ireland women's senior team will take on France in an international friendly on Thursday, February 25th in Richmond Park, Dublin 8. Noel King will use the match as his side undertakes key preparations for two forthcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers next month, a visit to Israel beckons on Sunday March 21st followed by a home encounter against Switzerland ten-day's later on Wednesday March 31st. The Girls in Green currently hold 3rd place in Group 6 having played four games in the FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign trailing behind Switzerland and Russia, while Group One leaders France, who are currently ranked 9th in the FIFA Women's World standing lead there Qualifying Group having accumulated maximum points ahead of Iceland, Croatia and Northern Ireland. Irish manager, Noel King said, "I am delighted that we will host the very highly rated French team in Dublin later this month. The game will be used as an important exercise ahead of our difficult World Cup qualifiers against Israel and Switzerland in March. I will be calling up our strongest available squad for the game, but we will be without two key players, Katie Taylor, who is unavailable and Stephanie Curtis, who is out for the rest of the season after she injured her anterior cruciate ligament in the 2-1 victory over Kazakhstan last October." At any level in football, the French national team are always going to be a very strong technical team. Last year, we played them away from home in a hard fought game which we lost 2-0. Winning is not necessarily the key component in this fixture as we develop our formation and tactics ahead of the World Cup battles that lie ahead of us. As a team, we have been improving steadily over the past number of years. It is games such as this in which we continue to develop, and if we get a victory with a helping hand, I won't be complaining," said King. NEW ACADEMY FOR WATFORD LADIES Watford has raised their chances of safekeeping the best young gifted girls in the area by starting a new women's academy. The Hornets were keen on helping formulate a clear link between the club's centre of excellence and the Watford Ladies first team by running an academy for 16 to 19 year olds. It grants those attending the scheme, which is in conjunction with West Herts College, the opportunity to blend academic studies with competing against the other academies in London and the South East. The project will also see large-scale links created with the USA to boost the possibilities of scholarship prospects. Rob Clarke, Watford's girls and women's development manager, said: "The programme also allows the players to gain their coaching qualifications and put them to good use by ultimately delivering on the many grassroots and elite projects that Watford FC CSE [Community Sports and Education] Trust deliver, so feeding their knowledge and experience to the next generation of players." Roger Park, West Herts College's head of school sport, travel and public services, added: "It's an exciting and innovative addition to the courses West Herts College can offer in sports.We know Watford FC's pedigree and reputation of developing talented female footballers and with the support of the College, I'm sure we can continue to be the front runners in the female game." Anyone interested in the female academy should contact West Herts College on 01923 812345 or Rob Clarke on 01923 496256 for further details. STOKE CITY LADIES GET NEW MANAGER Midlands Combination league side Stoke City Ladies have appointed Steve Swanwick as their new team-chief, Swanwick becomes First Team Manager following the departure of both Vicky Mitchell and Rachael Blunt, who ended a 9 month stint in charge of the Staffordfordshire Club this week having taken charge of last season West Midlands Premier Champions last summer, having played 14 league and cup games under the guidance of Mitchell and Assistant Blunt Stoke City Ladies had Won and lost Six Games while drawing two matches. Swanwick who has been involved with the Potteries Club for a number of years makes the step-up from assistant coach with Stoke City Ladies currently sitting fourth-from-bottom of the Midlands Combination Women's League. SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY WOMENS MANAGER RESIGNS Sheffield Wednesday Women have parted company with their manager Andy Burgess. It remains unclear if Burgess was pushed or jumped but the revelations come less than ten days after the Mansfield Town midfielder was banned by the football Assocrtaion for a match betting scandal while playing for Conference League Rushden and Diamonds an FA Charge which Burgess admitted. At a regulatory FA commission hearing, Andrew Burgess was suspended from playing football for one month, with a further three month suspended ban, and fined £500 for breaches of FA betting rules. Burgess admitted two offences related to bets placed on soccer matches in which he featured while he played for Rushden and Diamonds during the 2008-09 season. Burgess placed a £45.45 bet on Rushden to beat his new employers Mansfield Town on February 28th 2009 and a £5 stake on Rushden team-mate Curtis Woodhouse to be the first goal-scorer in a match against Kidderminster Harriers on November 15 2008. The one-month suspension is effective from February 4th. The suspended three month ban will be invoked should Burgess be found guilty of any similar offences in the future. FA rules prohibit football participants from betting on the result or progress of any match or competition in which the participant is participating or has any direct or indirect influence. Burgess has been involved with several women's football clubs including Kettering Town, Nottingham Forest and Leeds Carnegie in the past, Burgess, who was appointed in November took in control for just five games seeing his side beaten on three occasions while wining just once, his managerial rein at Wednesday started on a losing note after his Sheffield side suffer a 4-1 drubbing in his first match in command against in-form Leicester City Women. Sheffield Wednesday Chairman Jeff Maslin stated: "To lose someone of Andy's professionalism, integrity and enthusiasm is without doubt a big blow to the club. When I asked Andy to join the club, things were different on the work and personal front, but obviously with Andy, a professional footballer, changing club and having started a family, with Max arriving at the beginning of January, he cannot offer the time and commitment that is needed to manage a club like Sheffield Wednesday. Andy's honesty in not being able to commit 100% is an absolute credit to his professionalism - something that he has shown throughout his short time with us. The club wishes him all the luck in the future, and I am sure he will catch up with us every now and then." Andy Burgess commented: "It is with much regret and disappointment that I have felt it necessary to call time on my managerial career with Sheffield Wednesday Women. The plan from the start was to lead the club clear of relegation, then take them onto the next level - unfortunately for me that will now be in the hands of someone else, but they are inheriting a very good job, with fantastic people who made my short stay there a pleasure. The Club has a tough end to the season, and I shall be watching with interest, Finally my thanks go to the Chairman, Jeff Maslin, for giving me the opportunity in the first place to work at the Club." Wednesday has acted swiftly to appoint a replacement manager with the in-house promotion of Assistant Liam Kelly, who was Dan Dukes number two before the appointment of Burgess, Duke, who stepped down has also been re-appointed with a backroom role to help Kelly during the transition period. Sheffield Wednesday are currently languishing second-from-bottom of the FA Premier League Northern Division. ONE FOR ALL YOU REFEREES www.corshamreferee.co.uk is a great website for all your Football Referees out there, Its the complete site for Match Offices, there's news, information and some rather great cartoons why not check it. Meantime The Birmingham County Football Association has organized a series of Referee Fitness Training sessions at Tipton Sports Academy to help build the stamina and speed of Referees. The training sessions will take place every Wednesday evening between 9pm to 10pm on the 5-a side Astro Turf, with each session costing £3.00. The training sessions have been scheduled to help give a support system for referees looking for promotion and giving them a tailored approach to better their physical endurance, vital for referees. For further information please contact Martin Hancock on 07885 274 341 e-mail m.b.hancock@btinternet.com MISS OF THE SEASON Is this the miss of the season... so far ? From Doncaster Rovers Belles Millie Bright. See for yourself in our video section on our moonfruit website, As Rovers Bright balloons the ball over the crossbar from just 6 yards out with the goal at her mercy, when in all honesty to looked hard to miss rather than score during Rovers Cup contest against Havant & Waterloo last weekend. FAW PREMIER LEAGUE CUP FINAL PREVIEW. There's a preview of the forthcoming FA Women's Premier League Cup Final as both Rick Passmore and Mo Marley express their views and opinions about the forthcoming showdown between their two sides at the Spotland Stadium in Rochdale on Thursday 11th February. NEW GIRLS FOOTBALL SESSIONS IN STOKE-ON-TRENT The Staffordshire FA will be holding a new Girls Football Session at Holden Lane Sports College, Stoke on Trent. The new girls football centre will host weekly sesssions every Saturday morning, 10am – 12pm with the aim of providing girls aged 5 – 12 years old the opportunity to play regular football. The football centre will provide opportunities to learn and develop new skills, increase knowledge of the game and play as individuals and as a team in mini matches. 4v4 football will be a focus of the Football Centre with team opportunities also to be included in the Centre. The Football Centre is free to attend and will take place on the grass pitches at the school. Suitable footwear (football boots) and shin-pads must be worn by all players. Appropriate clothing should be worn for all sessions and drinks should be brought by the players to the session. Should any players be interested in attending the football centre, please feel free to come along each Saturday morning for a 10am start. Players will be required to register at the first session they attend. For further information, please contact Kevin Staples on 01785 279828 (Office Hours) or 07969 294084 E-Mail kevin.staples@staffordshirefa.com GUNNERS GIRLS HELP UNIVERSITY TO CHAMPIONSHIP Arsenal Ladies are now in their second year of a flowering partnership with The University of Hertfordshire. Players from Arsenal Ladies, who study full time at the educational establishment in Hertfordshire, have played a crucial part in helping the educational institution win back to back British University Colleges and Sport Premier League South Football titles. The University Squad lost only two matches and added the 2009/10 title to their 2008/09 success with an influential away win at Portsmouth in the last league game of the season. This is the second time the University has won the league title, since they and Arsenal Ladies founded their female football alliance back in 2008. The side scored 50 goals along the way while only conceding 12 goals as they secured the title with Arsenal Ladies first team players Kim Little, Natalie Ross, Niamh Fahey and Jennifer Beattie figuring alongside Academy star duo Sarah Quantrill, Cally Rowell and Lily Bilson. The University football programme is part of the player and educational roadway at Arsenal Ladies that, together with the Arsenal Academy, offers crème de la crème playing prospects and a quality schooling for females aged 16 upwards. ENGLAND NAME U-23 SQUAD The England Under-23 Manager Brent Hills has announced his squad for the forthcoming La Manga Tournament taking place in Spain from Friday 19th February until Saturday 27th. The squad is domineered by players representing Northern based clubs, Doncaster Rovers Belles, Everton and Leeds Carnegie provides the majority of the Squad while Midlands representatives come from Birmingham City and Nottingham Forest, while Claire Rafferty and Sarah Kempson are the only two representing the in the capital. Also named is States-based student shot stopper, Ashley Baker. Brent Hills charges will kick-off against Germany on Sunday February 22nd before taking on Norway 48 hours later and then going head to head with the USA on the 26th February. Pictured above Blues selected Players Dannii Bird (Far Left) and Kerys Harrop (Far Right) with Blues Young Prospect Maimee Morris and Blues Director Honour Keating both still waiting for their England Call-up (its in the Post Ladies) (Ps, here's a little tip when in Spain the Spanish hate you taking Photos, they arrested Me at the Port Bilbao at Gun Point for taking a Photo of the P&O Ferry from Portsmouth - Heaven Knows what they might of happened if I had wanted a Picture of Athletic Bilbao's Football Stadium - That's Gratitude for you and a true story) Goalkeepers. Carly Telford (Leeds Carnegie), Ashley Baker (University of Georgia) - Defenders. Kerys Harrop (Birmingham City), Claire Rafferty (Chelsea), Chelsea Weston (Doncaster Rovers Belles), Fern Whelan (Everton), Steph Houghton (Leeds Carnegie), Sophie Bradley (Leeds Carnegie), Ellie Gilliatt (Nottingham Forest) - Midfielders. Rachel Williams (Doncaster Rovers Belles), Brooke Chaplen (Everton), Michelle Hinnigan (Everton), Remi Allen (Leeds Carnegie) - Forwards Dannii Bird (Birmingham City), Sarah Kempson (Chelsea), Natasha Dowie (Everton), Ellen White (Leeds Carnegie), Jade Moore (Leeds Carnegie) On Standby Marie Hourihan (Doncaster Rovers Belles), Precious Hamilton (Doncaster Rovers Belles), Becky Hall (Doncaster Rovers Belles) SUMMER WOMENS LEAGUE Tipton Sports Academy will be hosting a pre season Women�s football league every Wednesday from the 9th June 2010 to the 21st July 2010, 7.00pm to 8.00pm. The pre-Season Summer League will cost �10 per team - For more information or to register your team contract the Sport and Physical Activity team on 0121 506 4980 Or e-mail: lisa_lisarashid@sandwell.gov.uk FREE SATURDAY SOCCER SCHOOL FOR GIRLS Local award winning coach of Birmingham FA County League side Tipton Town Ladies Football Club, Faye Harrison, will be on hand at the RSA Academy, Bilston Road, Tipton DY4 0BZ to put any girl aged between 11 and 16 through their paces and introduce them to the world of women’s football. Faye is very keen for local girls to get involved in football and with very few local facilities and clubs, “It’s fantastic that the RSA are prepared to share their facilities in order to provide a safe environment for the girls to try out the sport. It’s very difficult for girls to play at local parks, as they feel intimidated by the boys and this exclusive site is ideal to play without prejudice. When I was growing up, there were no local clubs I could join, I had no choice but to play with the lads, but I could never play in a league or compete until I was much older and played for Wolverhampton Wanderers Women. Forming Tipton Town Ladies was only the start of our plan for female football in the Tipton area, our aim is to expand so that we have teams for all ages, all we need now is for the local girls to give it a try.” Free Saturday Soccer School for girls aged 11-16 starts this Saturday 30th January between 10am – 12pm, Come along, have a look and Join in the football fun girls. If you would like more info, please call Faye on 07834 762106 ENGLAND NAME U17 SQUAD Ahead of the Elite Round of the UEFA European Women’s U17 Championship, England under 17'S manger Lois Fidler take a 26-strong squad to Manchester for a training camp.The Elite Round, which will be staged between 8th -13th April, has paired England against the hosts, Italy, along with Serbia and Holland, Fidler will use February’s training session as a chance to commence her Elite Round groundwork. Named in Fidler's U17 squad is Arsenal’s Lara Fay, who netted four goals in England’s First Qualifying campaign against Belarus, Macedonia and Wales. Other goals also included from that first stage are defenders, Alex Greenwood and Leicester City's Kirsty Linnett, midfielders, Katie Wilkinson, Nikita Parris and Elizabeth Ince along with Arsenal forward Danielle Carter.The squad will be put through their paces when they gather on 14th February for the four day training camp in the North West. Goalkeepers. Megan Walsh (Aston Villa), Stephanie Abbott (Chelsea LFC), Mary Earps (Leicester City WFC), Tatiana Saunders (The Mont Clair Thunderbolts) - Defenders Jade Bailey (Arsenal LFC), Billie Murphy (Arsenal LFC), Leigh-Anne Robe (Arsenal LFC), Hannah Short (Arsenal LFC), Alex Greenwood (Everton LFC), Leah Galton (Leeds Carnegie), Kirsty Linnett (Leicester City WFC), Megan Alexander (Reading LFC), Phoebe Richards (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Midfielders. Bianca Bragg (Arsenal LFC), Chole Dale (Aston Villa LFC), Katie Wilkinson (Aston Villa LFC), Nikita Parris (Everton LFC), Deanna Cooper (Gillingham LFC), Elizabeth Ince (Manchester United FC COE), Kate Perry (Santiago Surf SC) - Forwards. Freda Ayisi (Arsenal LFC), Danielle Carter (Arsenal LFC), Lara Fay (Arsenal LFC), Melissa Lawley (Aston Villa LFC), Sherry McCue (Crewe Alexander LFC), Lucy Gunton-Jones (Norwich City LFC) WPS SIDE SHUTS UP SHOP Former Women's Professional Soccer side The Los Angeles Sol will announce that it is ceasing operations after just one season.The Sol was one of the league's seven teams that played in the inaugural WPS season in 2009. However, under funding and the failure of the team to attract the crowds it expected to its Home Depot centre venue coupled with the One of the team's co-owners, AEG, who has been trying for a number of months to sell its share of the team without success left the other owners did not have the resources to carry the club forward on their own deciding this week to pull the plug on its Football operations. The team featured the world's top women's player, Brazilian forward Marta, the league's highest-paid player with a reported $500,000 salary and reached the WPS final in its only season, losing out to New Jersey Sky Blue in the championship match. The Sol parted company with Coach Abner Rogers during the closed-season with the team's general manager Charlie Naimo stepping in as interim coach. The team was not incorporated when WPS released its 2010 timetable this month, with the league official saying "Sol games would be revealed later after stadium issues had been settled" Former Sol players will be sent out in a dispersal draft to other WPS teams, but it was not immediately known whether Brazilian front runner Marta would return to the WPS league for the 2010 season. SANDERSON MOVES TO USA The delayed start to the Football Association's New Women's Super League has cost the English game yet another one of its top star players after Chelsea striker Lianne Sanderson (Pictured) become the seventh member of the England squad to jump ship and move cross the Atlantic to join the America Women's Professional Soccer League. Sanderson will join Philadelphia Independence but has gone on record to say that she might have stayed put in England if the new Super League had been preparing for its inaugural launch this year rather than having been deferred to March 2011. "It's great that there's going to be a Womens Super League," said the 21‑year‑old Star striker, "but it's come around too late. "If it was happening now, and I had the choice of England or America, I might have had a big decision to make. As it is, there was nothing to decide – I've been given a massive opportunity, and I'm going to live the dream of becoming a professional footballer in the best league in the world." Sanderson follows in the foot steps of her former Arsenal team-mate and fellow England Squad member Katie Chapman, who recently signed for Chicago Red Stars. The shipment of England Stars overseas to the USA will leave the national team coach Hope Powell having a third of her squad playing for US clubs during 2010 and Powell has on several occasions voiced and expressed her concern as the player drain continues. "When I told Hope I was going, she was very gracious about it and said playing in America would make me a better player," said Sanderson. "She's already seen the improvement in the girls who played over their last year, so I think the situation can actually help the England team." LEEDS WITHDRAW SUPER LEAGUE BID Leeds Carnegie Ladies have withdrawn their application to join Super League, The FA has confirmed that Leeds Carnegie Ladies Football Club has withdrawn its application for a place in the forthcoming new FA Women's Super League. An FA Spokesperson said " The FA would like to thank Leeds Carnegie Ladies for the time and resources invested by everyone at the club in order to prepare their application and looks forward to supporting the club in the future" Leeds Carnegie Ladies will continue to play in The FA Tesco Women's Premier League for the remainder of the 2009-2010 season. The club is also looking forward to competing in The FA Tesco Women's Premier League Cup Final on Thursday 11th February against Everton Ladies. GIRLS DEVASTATED AT NEWS" SAYS PASSMORE Leeds Carnegie Manager Rick Passmore has given his first reaction to the heartbreaking news that Leeds Carnegie could fold at the end of the current season following the withdrawal of their interest in becoming founder members of the Football Association's new Women's Super League, a verdict that could have damaging ratifications and lead to the club folding-up in a matter of weeks while also Impeding the already shaky progression towards accomplishing the FA's goal and perception of a professional women's league played during the summer months in-line with their counterparts in the United States. "The girls were devastated, tearful and some of them very angry," said Leeds boss, Rick Passmoor, after informing his players, seven of whom are current England squad members. The bombshell stems from the fact that "The University cannot commit to the substantial increase in budgets proposed under plans for Super League," read a statement from the university. Clubs were originally told that a minimum annual budget of £140,000 (half provided by the FA) was visualized, but then came the specification that player salaries must be above and beyond that figure and £250,000 is now deemed to be the practical yearly expenditure. "It's disappointing that Leeds have withdrawn their bid," said the FA spokesman Johann Alexander, "but we have another 15 clubs interested and the process goes on." Leeds Carnegie were scheduled in a fortnight's time take centre stage against Everton in the FA Women's Premier League Cup, That showpiece League Cup Final may not go ahead. "A decision will be made in due course about the support of the club," university spokesperson Helen Goodwin added. Even if the Yorkshire club survives it will be significantly undermined by the certain loss of key players. Passmoor said: "I've told the girls, I want them to stick together for the rest of the season, win the League Cup and go out with a bang." and that seemingly signifies that come next August, if not sooner, there may not be a Leeds Carnegie Women's Football Team on the horizon. Passmore is now left to put up the pieces of a devastating bombshell that has torn through the top-flight club, either way whatever happens Passmore now faces one of the biggest jobs in Women's Football as he tries to motivate his female charges into continuing their league and cup campaign, which takes them to FA Cup Holders Arsenal Ladies in less than seven days time when the reality is there is very little but memories to play for. Formed as Leeds United Ladies perhaps one hope now should the University final bring down the curtain on the clubs 22 year history is that the Coco Cola league side will step in and help their female counterparts once again but that seems a long shot in the dark for Passmore and his devastated tearful Young Ladies at Leeds Carnegie but as the explosion of women's football continues to see female football clubs up and down the land fold-up Leeds Carnegie Women's Football Club may be the biggest casualty yet as money continues to devalue and destroy our beautiful game. But as Passmore and his team prepare to take on the mighty Arsenal Ladies next weekend there seems to be little left to play for in a season which is just about at the half way stage after succumbing to the fact the Club will not be a part of the biggest change to hit Women's Football. BURNTWOOD PHOENIX SET TO EXPAND Burntwood Phoenix Ladies members of the Staffordshire FA County League are currently looking for players for their Open Age seniors' ladies team (aged 16+) to add to and strengthen their current table topping league team with a longer term view to building a Reserve team for next season. They train on a Wednesday evening at Oak Park Recreation Centre, Shire Oak on the astro turf from 7:30pm to 9:00pm and play on a Sunday afternoon at there home ground Burntwood Recreation Centre, High Street, Burntwood with kick offs at 2:00pm. Club chairman Steve Morris said "The Clubs vision is to progress with the team they currently have into the regional league and to start a reserve side that would compete in the Staffordshire County ladies League within the next couple of seasons with the junior teams feeding into the ladies section.We started the ladies team with a long term view to take to the higher levels of ladies football and develop not just as a club but also assist the players to play at higher standards and develop their game" adding " with regard to players we are looking for players in all positions, we also like to experiment and allow players to play in different positions so anyone who can kick a ball, has awareness of the game and wants to progress further is invited to join" For more information on Burntwood Phoenix Ladies please visit the clubs website www.burntwoodphoenixfc.co.uk or contact Steve Morris on 07813 157294 or Email: steve.morris@footballfuture.net WALSALL LADIES APPOINT NEW MANAGER West Midlands Regional Ladies League first division side Walsall Ladies have appointed Adam Smallman as First Team Manager, Smallman, who left Birmingham Athletic Ladies at Christmas had guided Birmingham Atletic Ladies to the top of the league and joins a Walsall side currently in 8th position in the Southern League having won just once in seven league outings so far this season. Smallman said "I had a call from the Club's Chairman Brian Simpson informing me his manager was resigning asking if I would be interested in a return to women's football management, we spoke, and he told me it's, a "fresh canvas" and my job is to try and make the 1st team strong and attractive to players again". Smallman takes charge for the first time on Sunday when Walsall Ladies host Fairfield Villa Ladies - Meantime Walsall Ladies FC are looking to add to their existing first team squad/backroom staff, who compete in the West Midlands Southern League First Division, They have vacancies for the following:- New players, First Team Physio (expenses paid) and First Team Coach (expenses paid) For more information, please contact the club's Manager: Adam Smallman on 07970 096535 SPORTS RELIEF 2010 Sport Relief is back, and this time it's from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st March. The whole of the UK will come together to get active, raise cash and change lives. It has a unique history of dedicated people doing extraordinary things to make a difference - from David Walliams’ swim across the English Channel, to Eddie Izzard’s amazing marathon a day around the UK. And that's not to mention the thousands of incredible people who rise to the challenge by doing the Sainsbury's Sport Relief Mile. Alternatively, our amazing fundraisers who do something fun and active to raise cash and help make the world of difference. All the money raised by the public is spent by Comic Relief to help transform the lives of poor and vulnerable people, both at home and across the world’s poorest countries for more information check out http://www.sportrelief.com/ Races on Sunday will be taking place right across the Midlands area. REDDITCH UNITED LADIES APPOINT NEW MANAGERS West Midlands Regional Ladies league side Redditch United ladies have appointed Mandy Hill and Sharon Porter as Joint First Team Managers, The former Headless Cross duo replaces Tony Taylor and Assistant Dave Morgan, Hill and Porter bring a wealth of local ladies experience to the club having been part of a successful Headless Cross winning side who gained promotion from the Southern Dvision to Premier Division during the 2003/2004 season under former Headless Cross Manager Rod Auld, Hill then took charge of Headless Cross Ladies before the team withdrew from the West Midlands League and subsequently folded. Redditch United Ladies currently languish third-from-bottom in the Southern League having won just once in nine league outings so far this season. FA WORKSHOP The Equality Workshop takes place at the Herefordshire FA on Monday 22nd March, 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Aimed at Charter Standard Clubs • Volunteers • Parents • Referees • FA and County FA staff • County FA Council members • County Development staff and Administrators at county, district, league and club level. Purpose of the workshop. This workshop has been designed to Support County FAs with their plans to increase inclusion for members of the community who wish to participate. It supports the objectives and targets outlined in the National Game Strategy. It will raise awareness and knowledge of equality in football, identify issues and barriers, and guide appropriate action plans. It will help to develop confidence in dealing with equality issues and facilitate the sharing of examples of best practice. It is a generic workshop covering all equality issues - women and girls, disability, ethnic minorities, young/older people and other socially excluding factors. It is a pre-requisite for Handling Discrimination Cases training. Benefits. The benefits of attending include gaining Knowledge of legislation and key terminology e.g. equality,diversity, sports equity and equal opportunities, An understanding of the demographics of England and football and the benefits and barriers to equality, Knowledge of the most up to date diversity sensitive language and behaviour, An appreciation of the experience of belonging to a minority group and an Understanding of the organisation’s grievance/complaints' procedure, Recognition of unfair, inappropriate and illegal behaviour and state how to challenge and report it Contacts and networking with external organisations that give guidance and support on equality issues, Awareness of importance of consultation, An action plan to make the organisation more open and Accessible. Telephone 01432 342179 email paul.carpenter@herefordshirefa.com Please visit www.herefordshirefa.com/development for up to date football development news including course details and application forms. FIRE SERVICE REIGNITES WOMENS FOOTBALL The West Midlands Fire Service has announced their continued support for women and girls football in the county by sponsoring some of County Football Associations various programmes to boast women and girls football in the Midlands region. As part of the partnership between the Birmingham County FA and West Midlands Fire Service Staff members have been invited to attend the West Midlands Fire Service Training Centre in Smethwick on Thursday 15th April to take part in a ‘Firefighter Challenge’ at WMFS Training Centre: Dartmouth Road, Smethwick, B66 1BG - Teams of four or five will compete and between ten and twenty participants can compete in any one session (split into 2 or 4 teams). Once teams are fully kitted out they will be put to task on four timed activities including: Cage crawl, Shuttle runs with weights, Equipment assembly and then de-assemble it correctly, Locating a casualty in a dark, smoky room, Guiding your team mates around the smoke house using only hand signals! For further information on the sponsorship, please contact Polly Fildes on 0121 3574 278 or polly.fildes@birminghamfa.com LONDON FIVE A-SIDE FREE FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT If you are aged 25 or over and live in the South East London area, there's a chance to enter a 5-a-side tournament for free! London FA and Bexley Council are running a tournament for women who are over 25 years old at the Goals centre in Bexleyheath, South East London. With partnership funding from the London South Bank University and the Big Lottery Fund, the tournament will take place from 7-9pm on the 26th February 2010. The tournament is aimed at over 25s who may be new to the sport, or who used to play, or current players who want to play some small-sided football. Emma Barnes, Women’s & Girls FDO for the London FA said ‘’This is a great opportunity for women to get a group of friends together and take part in a fun tournament, with the chance to get some exercise at the same time. A similar tournament was run a year ago, and it was very successful, so we plan to run these events regularly through the year’’ For more information and to request a booking form, contact emma.barnes@londonfa.com or call 07921 050375.

Midlands & Beyond Managerial Football Vacancies You are Reading this? Just think - so could be your New Players, Coaches and Team Managers to advertise your Player or Managerial Vacancies for free just e-mail the particulars to newsroom@ladiessoccer.co.uk - Glenn Lawrence Media "What a Result" To Place a Free Advertise in this Section Just Drop Us an e-mail

Playing Opportunities In The Midlands Area & Beyond If You Need any Help finding a Girls or Women's Football Team in Your Area Just Drop us an Email telling us your age Group and The Town Where You Live. Details of Teams looking For New Players ahead of the 2009/2010 season To Advertise Free Just Email Us. NORTHAMPTON TOWN LADIES FC Northampton Town Ladies are also searching for players who feel they have the ability and want the challenge of playing at Combination League levels. Interested parties should please email Jon Cave at jcntlandgfc@fsmail.net. COPSEWOOD (COVENTRY) LADIES FC Copsewood Ladies are seeking to increase their playing squad ahead of the clubs second Midlands Combination League Campaign and are looking for New Players to join them in all Areas, Proven Experience is a distinct advantage. However, if you feel you can compete at a Midlands Combination level and would like an opportunity to demonstrate so then this is a unique opportunity for players aged 16+ to Join a Friendly Family Fun Women's Football Team, who secured a top six finish in their Finish campaign having been West Midlands Champions for the Past Two Seasons, The Club offers excellent Playing and Social Club facilities at Allard Way if you're a fringe player, a new player, or you are just seeking a change of Clubs, then there are plenty of playing opportunities for Players as the Management looks to build a bigger squad to complete at the highest level, Interested? Mick Conneely can give you more Info on 0793 152 9126 CLIFTON LADIES FC Clifton Ladies Football Club is looking for quality players in all positions for their 2009/10 East Midlands Women’s Football League Premier Division Campaign.The football club offers excellent team and club training facilities and are supported by FA Level 2 qualified Coaches and a Personal Fitness Trainer. Training takes place on a Thursday evening from 7-9pm.For further information, please contact Stuart on 0795 713 8016 or email stuartjboswell@yahoo.co.uk WILLENHALL TOWN LADIES FC West Midlands Regional League First Division Northern Club Willenhall Town is seeking New Players for the Forthcoming Season. The Club Trains at Willenhall Memorial Park, Noose Lane, Willenhall, Wolverhampton. WV13 3AP and Home Games are held at Willenhall Town Football Club, Noose Lane, Willenhall, Wolverhampton. WV13 3AP. Kick off 2pm. Noose Lane has excellent playing and social Club facilities and are a friendly family orientated Community Football Club. Interested in Playing? Please Contact: Ashley Harrison on 077 9311 4667 or Scott Turner on 075 4548 6333 KINGSTHORPE LADIES FC Newly promoted Northampton based East Midlands Southern newcomers Kingsthorpe Panthers together with Northants FA County League side Kingsthorpe Jaguars are seeking New Players for the forthcoming Season contact Steve 07702 250669 or e-mail hillstv@aol.com BRIDGNORTH SPARTANS LFC Bridgnorth Spartans Ladies are seeking new players for the season 2009/10. Bridgnorth has gone from strength to strength over the past 12 months and have just won promotion, as Champions, from the Shropshire County Women’s League into the West Midlands League for the first time. If you are aged 16 or over, enjoy meeting people and want to get fit then this is the team for you.Pre-season training will start on Tuesday 7th July 2009 at 7.00-8.30pm at Oldbury Wells School, Bridgnorth. For more details feel free to contact Lou Smart on 07772072029 or email her at: louisesmart876@btinternet.com Check out the Club’s official websites either at www.bswfc.synthasite.com or bridgnorthspartansjfc.co.uk DAVENTRY TOWN LADIES FC Northamptonshire based County FA League side Daventry Town Ladies, who play in the East Midlands Southern League have set-up a reserve team for the new season the Club is currently looking for new players for both Teams aged 16+ - Interested please contact Manager Ben Jones on 0777 136 6459. UNITED LADIES FC Newly formed United Ladies based in the Telford Area are seeking New Players for next season please call 07535 661 215 or e-mail unitedlfc@hotmail.co.uk DUDLEY UNITED LFC West Midlands Southern League side Dudley United are Seeking New Players for next season Please call Andy Mulligan for more information on 07961 046299 or 0845 6431998 email andysportsplus@yahoo.co.uk WOODFORD UNITED LADIES FC Northamptonshire based County FA League side Woodford United Ladies are now starting to recruit new players for next season, Aged 16+ years old and plus, any ability level from novice to experienced is welcome. Pre season starts on Wednesday 24th June at Woodford United F.C Byfield Road 7pm - 8.30pm. The Family orientated friendly football club based at Woodford Halse offers excellent Training, Playing and Social Club facilities at a purpose built facility. For More Info please Contact Danni on 0776 117 9510. KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS LFC West Midlands Premiership League side Kidderminster Harriers Ladies are now on the look out for new players and sponsorship for the 2009-10 season. Player must be 16 years old and over by September 2009. For more info please call Kidderminster Manager Mike Kirby-Davies 07761 322406 or email kirbz1@hotmail.com

WEBB INSPIRES GRASSROOTS REFEREES Birmingham County League Side Tipton Town Ladies formed just over eighteen months ago found it so hard to get Referees that one of their co-founders Susan Albrighton decided to take up the Whistle, Now just over half-way through her first season as a qualified referee thing's are going really well for Susan who explained. My highlight so far has been attending a fantastic meeting hosted by the Solihull Referees Association, where one of its guest speakers was the brilliant Premier League Referee, Howard Webb. "Howard spoke to us for nearly two hours about what it's really like to be in his shoes, said Susan who admitted I've always admired Howard, and he is my favorite top flight referee. He stood out for me when I saw him intervene between some burly Arsenal players who squared up to each other and pushed Adebayor away to prevent any further incident, which you may argue is not what you should do, but I was somewhat proud he did" said Susan He showed footage of recent Premiership League matches, decisions he had made and explained why he made them. He also admitted openly to maybe missing a trick, when he didn't book Christiano Ronaldo for dissent. Christiano applauded Howard for giving him his first yellow card for a reckless challenge, but later he jumped for the ball with two arms raised and handled the ball in the penalty area, which gave Howard no excuse but to yellow him again and send him off. Howard also gave the audience insight into one of his own valuable lessons to always do the basics. After giving Vidic his second yellow card in the recent Manchester derby, he nearly forgot to show him the red, but thankfully a good team around him, stopped him from making that career ending mistake. If Howard had followed his normal routine of writing on his cards, he wouldn't have missed it and urged all Referees to do the same. Howard fully supports the Respect The Ref campaign and even appeared in the advert to promote the importance of Referees. The floor was opened up for questions. One was about the influence of Premiership footballers on our youngsters and the fact they are not penalized for obvious acts of dissent, he took this on board and said he will try and be more aware of what is being said. What impressed me the most about Howard said up and coming Referee Susan, is that he isn't afraid to admit when he has made mistakes, and he genuinely tries's really hard to do a good job, I hope I can follow his big footsteps and be as good as him in the future added Susan. Pictured Top Premiership Referee Howard Webb sees Red from Susan Albrighton

LEIGHTON LINDSLADE LADIES FC BLOWN AWAY BY HOT AIR TREATMENT A selection of players and management from Leighton Linslade Ladies football club took part in a trial “Hot Air Massage” session this week courtesy of young business woman Hayley Wheeler of Hot Air Massage. Leighton Linslade Ladies Football Club have been in preseason training for a few weeks now and will shortly be playing Three preseason friendly’s before the season starts with a home game against Royston on 23rd August. As with all other sports teams, it is important to LLLFC to have a fit and injury free squad of players to start the season with. The ladies have a professional approach to training and matchday’s to avoid twists and strains but inevitably in footballing injuries happen from time to time, so the club was delighted when Hayley offered her services to the team. On Monday evening some of the Leighton players with long standing niggle's went along to the salon to try out the innovative treatment. Hayley, 23, from St Andrews Street, Leighton, has opened her air massage beauty salon above Michael Di Meo’s hair studio in North Street and is currently working with Luton Town as part of their preseason program. Hot Air massage combines the healing powers of air, heat and massage and firmly stands at number one as the most effective, non invasive, natural therapy in treating chronic muscle pain and tension, migraines, rheumatism, arthritis & muscle injuries. New Leighton manager David Starr who has had a recent knee operation was quick to praise Hayley and the treatment. “Other than the obvious therapeutic advantage, I left with all my muscles glowing and feeling invigorated” Speaking about David’s recovery from his knee operation Hayley said “The Hot Air Massage is very good for helping to recover from an injury because the heat helps to heal and because you can work so deeply, you can really work into the muscle. For a knee especially or any joints its very hard to work on them using conventional massage or any other treatment because there’s not a lot you can do, but the air can get deep into the joint and surrounding tissues and speed up the healing process” A selection of Leighton players also benefited from the treatment and comments included “its very relaxing”, “unlike a sports massage it doesn’t hurt, However, you feel the immediate benefits, and “you can really feel the hot air working deep into your muscles” with others suggesting it would be particularly beneficial after a game or training session. For more information about the hot air massage, please contact Hayley on 01525 850 502. Hot Air Massage by Hayley Wheeler is a revolutionary anti cellulite & inch loss treatment also! It’s excellent in treating chronic muscle pain & tension and is an ideal lunch time stress buster! The full body therapy lasts 25 min and is non invasive & 100% natural!hot Air Massage,82 North Street, Leighton Buzzard,LU7 1ES (above Michael Di Meo's) call 01525 850 502 or Http://hotairmassage.com/default.aspx Leighton Linslade Ladies Football Club was established over 25 years ago and is one of Bedfordshire’s premier teams. In 2008 the team won the Beds and Hert’s League to gain promotion to the Eastern Region Southern League where they finished 7th last year. This year with new manager David Starr they are looking forward to challenging for promotion Leighton Linslade Ladies Football Club can be contact via the Club Secretary Shelley Rollinson 079 7479 0442. www.clubwebsite.co.uk/leightonlinsladeladiesfootballclub

TIPTON TOWN COACH SCORES AGAIN Faye Harrison manager and coach of Birmingham County FA Tipton Town Ladies Football Club had a very successful season last year, helping the club to achieve The Runners Up Spot in the Birmingham FA County Women's Division One with the black country club taking no fewer that four other accolades along the way, Brasillia 09 Winners, Black Country Futsal League Runners Up and Lucozade Sport Performance Club Of The Year along with an Individual award for Kiren Rana, who was Top Goal Scorer in the Lucozade Sport Performance League. In recognition of this great year Faye was awarded the Charter Standard Coach Of The Year award from the Birmingham FA, presented to her by Sky Sports Chris Kamara at the Grassroots Live show at the NEC in Birmingham. She was also put forward by the Birmingham FA for the Regional awards which she won. As a regional winner Faye also qualifies for the National Awards, so fingers are crossed for that one.Faye has also been short listed for the Coach Of The Year Award at the Black Country Sport & Physical Awards Ceremony due to take place at the Copthorne Hotel, Merry Hill, on the 9th October.Faye's next challenge comes as Tipton Town Ladies will shortly begin their first campaign in the Premier Division of Birmingham County Women's League, lets hope she can work her magic again. Tipton's early form saw the club going down in its opening preseason friendly 4-0 at the hands of a stronger Stratford Town Ladies side before Hot-Shot Kiran Rana bagged a hat-trick in the clubs 9 Goal thriller against Shropshire County newcomers United Ladies as Tipton eventually ran out 5-4 winners with Amy Lee and Sian Whittall also netting goals for the Black Country hosts, Amy Lee was also on the score-sheet in the clubs latest preseason encounter which saw Tipton Town Ladies beaten 7-2 by Midlands Combination West Bromwich Albion Ladies, Tipton continued their preseason timetable this Sunday with a visit from Kingshurst Sporting as Harrison fine tunes her side for the clubs big FA Cup outing on 13th September against Worcester FA County League opponents Stourport Swifts and their nothing more that Harrison will demand from her side than a good Women's FA Cup Run and to bank some cash along the way, and if she can literally work her magic then a first round home time against Southam United Ladies beckons on the Women's FA Cup trail. It all started for Tipton Town Ladies in the summer of 2007 and in a bid to get fit, Faye and Susan responded to an add in the paper asking for players to join Netherton Colts Ladies. They instantly hit it off with the few others that were there, Kerry, Jo and Gemma. But then the Manager had to leave due to personal problems and they were left in the wilderness by themselves. They decided they would try and cope doing it themselves. Gemma placed an advert in the local paper and one by one more and more players began to join the training sessions. Sarah and Faye interrogated local clubs to see what was best for the team. They soon realised they were not going to get any support, they went with the only club that offered them any help and so Tipton Town Ladies FC was born. Susan handled the Secretarial side and shared the Treasury with Kerry. Even though they were a little late kicking off their season going, they got it together just in time. They played their first match in size 44 men's football shirts, no wonder they lost 21-0. Tipton Town Ladies successfully completed its first season a very successful first year, finishing third overall after being piped to promotion at the final game. Last Season second campaign on the Women's Football Pyramid brought more success the emergence of BBC Radio WM's Tony Butler, who offered his support and attended some of the clubs' games and this time they sealed promotion as Runners-Up behind champions Southam United. Only time will tell what lies ahead in the clubs third league campaign as they reach new heights in the Birmingham FA County League Premiership. http://www.birminghamfa.com/News/2009/06/BCFAAwardWinners2009.htm http://www.birminghamfa.com/News/2009/07/SuccessAtWestMidlandsCharterStandardClubsAwards.htm Pictured - Faye Harrison with Sky Sports and Ex Swindon Town Professional Football Chris Kamara

CONNEELY CELEBRATES A DECADE IN CHARGE AT COPSEWOOD LADIES Years after initially taking charge of Works' outfit Coventry Marconi Ladies in the West Midlands Regional Ladies League Manager Mick Conneely prepares to lead his side into their tenth Women's League crusade when the Midlands Club kicks off its Second Midlands Combination League Campaign in September against Rotherham United. Ambitious Conneely who now celebrates a decade in charge of the Allard Way based Women's Team knows this season will be a tough test for his small side. Beaten finalist in last season's Midlands Combination League Cup Final and having produced a record Women's FA Cup run just twelve previously amid back to back promotions from the West Midlands League Conneely knows this season will be the biggest test of his managerial rein in charge of the Midlands Club but unlike every other Midlands Combination club Conneely has no magically second string to call upon and far fewer resources that many of these seasons' more illustrious big name opponents but despite that over the years the clubs' hunt for silverware and progress through the Women's Football Pyramid continues despite only having a very small playing squad, The one thing that Conneely knows will hamper the clubs' chances of progression as they look forward to the new season, last terms top six finish reflexes Conneely's problems of a small squad and with no backup Reserve or Youth setup to call upon injuries took their toll on a team who on their day are more than competitive. Ten years on and the name of the communications giant Marconi may have long since vanished and been replaced by the name Copsewood, Conneely's Hard Work, Time and Dedication has lifted the Midlands Club to its biggest position within the Women's domestic game backed up by coaches Ryan and Joe Conneely the clubs' success over the past years many had been attributed to Conneely's Ten Years in command but the canny coach would be the first to acknowledge many people have played their part in the Clubs rise in the past decade. The family orientated football Club is seeking ambitious players aged 16+ in all positions to join them this season to play in the Midlands Combination Women's League, This is a unique chance for players who believe they have the ability to play in the third tier and beyond of Women's Football Pyramid, The Club offers excellent coaching, first class playing conditions and social club facilities at their Allard Way headquarters in Coventry - If you are interested in Joining the Midlands Club, please contact Mick on 0793 1529126 Pictured Copses Manager Mick Conneely with Club Sponsor Melonie Smith National Article for Womenssoccerscene

CHAPMAN TEAMS UP WITH CARNEY AND HAYES AT CHICAGO RED STARS The Chicago Red Stars have swooped to sign Arsenal and England midfielder Katie Chapman ahead of the teams 2010 Womens Professional Soccer season Chapman is the second midfielder signing the Chicago Red Stars have brought in during the close season after obtaining 26 year-old Julianne Sitch formerly with Sky Blue FC, on a free transfer back in October. Chapman certainly is a well-known figure to Red Stars head coach Emma Hayes and Red Stars midfielder Karen Carney.While at Arsenal Ladies Carney and Chapman were team-mates, and Hayes was the Clubs assistant coach, from 2006 to 2008. Carney and Chapman are also regular selections for their native England National Team. Chapmans familiarity and friendship with Carney and Hayes coaching technique will be a bonus for the Red Stars in their 2010 WPS League campaign."I have watched Katie play, since she was 15, Hayes said. I coached her for two years at Arsenal, and she is a rock that makes everything around her better. She was the engine and heartbeat of the successful quadruple-winning team. that clinched the FA Women's Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup in 2007. Chapman, 27, is a concrete tough tacking physical player who handles a full force of the dirty work in the heart of the pitch. She also can manufacture on the offensive end in a big game. In May 2009, Chapman scored a goal as Arsenal overpowered Sunderland, 2-1, to win the FA Womens Cup. While back in May 2002, Chapman netted the match winner for Fulham to secure the Women's FA Cup after a 2-1 victory over Doncaster Belles in the Final. I travelled to the Euros this past summer, and she was Englands best player, Hayes said. She will bring steel and consistency to the midfield, and she is a wonderful human being and team-mate" adding " Her experience will push us forward, and I am delighted to be working with her again. Twice during her career in England, Chapman took an interlude from playing football when she was expectant with her first son, Harvey, in 2002-2003, and gave birth to her second son, Riley, in January of 2008. Before making a quick return to both her domestic club Arsenal and the England National Team, Just several months later Chapman was competing alongside Carney for a runners-up medal in the 2009 UEFA Womens European Championship. Chapman currently holds 73 international caps and has scored seven goals while on England duty, having been part of the England Team for the past eight years since her debut in May 2000 against Switzerland, London born Chapman has turned our for three of the capitals' clubs Chapman having played for Millwall Lionesses for eight years from 1992 to 2000, while at Millwall Chapman made her debut for England U-18s at the tender age of 16, before a move across the City beckoned to Fulham in 2000 after four years Chapman signed for Charlton Athletic in 2004 spending two years before again moving across the capital to join Arsenal in 2006. Chapmans official signing is pending the leagues ratification. Pictured Katie Chapman Photo Glenn Lawrence

2010 REDDITCH CHARITY CALENDAR RAISING MONEY FOR HEART UK Redditch United Womens Football Club, who currently play in the West Midland Division South League; have bared all to raise money for the club and H.E.A.R.T. UK; the clubs chosen charity. The girls have used 'saucy football' as the theme for the calendar and hope to raise £1000-£1500 for a good cause. The calendar features match and game day situations i.e.stud check and defensive wall but with a cheeky twist. The calendar costs £5 (plus p&p) and can be purchased online at www.kosport.co.uk. Or if you're more local to Redditch area, you can purchase a copy from The Calendar Club Shop and Muffin Break in the town centre. The Saucy Tongue in cheek ventured Last Year saw the Club raised £1500 and this year they will be hoping to go one better and raise even more cash for the H.E.A.R.T UK charity. The Club's Olivia Nicholson told us "We have recently published a charity calendar to raise funds for the club and for H.E.A.R.T. UK. We did the same last year and raised £1500 in sales and are hoping to achieve similar success this year. The calendar is a little bit saucy and tongue in cheek - to capture interest, but very much based on womens football" Picture - Front Cover of the 2010 Redditch United Womens Football Calendar - On Sale Now - From all Good Stockists. Web Space provided by ladiessoccer.co.uk in the aid of Charity. http://www.kosport.co.uk/

" WORLD CLASS " PLAYERS ARE OUR GOAL SAY WPS NEWCOMERS Paul Riley, Head Coach of WPS Newcomers Philadelphia Independence believes the acquisition of incoming England Stars Fara Williams and Lianne Sanderson will be a great additional to American Professional newcomers because both Williams and Sanderson are "World Class" Liverpool born Riley and his coaching staff have backed up their promise to make it a season to remark with Five International signings. In March 2009 Philadelphia Independence was awarded the eighth franchise for women’s pro soccer in the USA, joining seven other cities – Bay Area, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New Jersey/New York, St. Louis, and Washington, DC. Later in 2009, Atlanta joined the league constitution after being awarded the ninth franchise, Which means the WPS 2010 season with kick-off nine teams. " We are extremely excited to start play in spring 2010, and experience the extraordinary" revealed Independence Club Owner Halstead as Women's professional football returns to the Philadelphia area on April 11th when the reformed club makes its new league doubt by hosting fellow newcomers Atlantic Beat, The Philadelphia Charge women's team survived three seasons and folded in 2003 along with the league. David Halstead, owner president and CEO of the 2010 entry into a new league, looked long and hard at the old set-up "I would say that there was not a tested business model that brought the kids to the field and brought some of the teams into the cities. I think there was a tremendous amount of lessons learned." added Halstead. Coach Matt Driver says " planning for this franchise stretches back years with nurturing of youth teams and then minor leagues to develop a feeder system for talent and prime the pump of interest. Still, it won't be all local talent: We're hoping to bring some international level here, you know, "world class players." The signing of five international players signifies Owner Halstead and his coaching staffs commitment to make in his eyes Philadelphia Independence "The Best" Pre-Season for both Williams and Sanderson kicks off on March 7th before the Club undertakes Exhibition Matches in a pre-season campaign which culminates with a home opener on the first day of the new season against one of the leagues other debutants Atlanta Beat, football fever is beginning to take hold in Philadelphia with tickets ranging from $40 that's about £25 to $12 about £7.50 already on sale for the Clubs Show piece opener. Pick of the clubs new signing is Caroline Seger Swedish National Team Captain, who is recognized as one of the top midfielders in the world.now boasting an impressive 47 caps and 4 goals. Her efforts helped Sweden to qualify for the 2007 FIFA World Cup, Caroline represented her country again in the 2008 Olympic Games, leading her team to the quarter-finals stages before being knocked out by Germany, Fellow native Swede Charlotte Rohlin is also a member of the Swedish National Team and is widely respected for her tremendous play at the back in central defence. Head Coach Paul Riley believes both Williams and Sanderson will be a great addition to the Independence International line-up “Fara is a superb player with tremendous vision, a vintage final ball and a work-rate second to none. She covers allot of ground, is always available to her team-mates and enjoys the pressure of having the ball at her feet. Fara has a top class attitude with technical and tactical knowledge.” While the Clubs General Manager Terry Foley hopes that Lianne will bring her offensive prowess to the Independence team. “Lianne has scored goals at every level she has played at, and we hope that she will continue to score goals in Philadelphia.Lianne is accustomed to winning having played for both Arsenal and Chelsea, and that tradition of victory should be carried with the Independence.” Speaking about his hopes for the season ahead Halstead said " Together with all of its affiliates, sponsors, and business partners, the Independence organization is committed to bring Philadelphia at team that Is recognized and respected for its outstanding play and tenacity, The fans love to watch and are proud to support as we Continue to build on Philly’s rich and winning pro sports traditions, a team which Our soccer youth looks to for its modern day heroes and role models while Giving back to its community through its philanthropic efforts, and a team which Our corporate and business partners are honoured to be affiliated with" adding " With great anticipation for the start of the 2010 season, we will all work hard to live up to these expectations and look forward to the partnership and involvement of the Philadelphia fans and communities Reports suggest both Williams and Sanderson have been offered lucrative contracts worth well in excess of £250,000 although the new club remained tight lipped neither confirming nor denying media reports on individual players contracts for its in-coming international stars with Nine English Players now plying their trade and based in the USA England Head coach Hope Powell remains uneasy with the Player Drain from home shores that has lured her star names across the Atlantic. However, Powell may well have a difficult time ahead negating the release of her Three Lions stars should the American base clubs chose not to play ball for England's International games and the American based clubs will pull all the strings with Powell if they choose not compile with England's request to release their contractual players. The Women's game backcross the Atlantic has a reputation for being tougher, more competitive, Physical and even viciously violent, the hair pulling and stray punches dished out by damned American College Women's Football Elizabeth Lamberts plays testimony to those facts the scenes of which would not have been out of place in the Boxing Ring. 20-year-old Lambert was banned in November 2009 by her college football team, the University of New Mexico Lobos, after acting like a mad woman possessed during a crunch soccer match against rivals Brigham Young University, Lambert can be seen kicking, punching and even yanking one of her opponents to the ground by grabbing her ponytail. Incredibly, Lambert was only yellow-carded by the match official during the game for kicking the ball into the face of a tumbling player she was later forced to apologize and eat humble pie in relation to her on the field tactics landing her the honour of being branded the "Worlds Most Dirtiest Female Player" its a far cry from anything Atlantic bound Sanderson and Williams would have experienced in the top-flight English Women's League with the American clubs urturing many players like Lambert, who have risen through the ranks of College Football in the States and while the WPS and Football Clubs across the Status try to distance themselves from Lamberts actions it will have tarnished their national game after being broadcast around the world however no one denies there is rather more physical contact in American game. However, amid the glitz and glamour Club Owner Halstead knows past mistakes have been costly, but he refused to be drawn on why he believes his reformed club and himself will succeed this time around having previously failed, but is first to acknowledge "past mistakes have been learnt by the club and the people behind it hope they have learnt the lessons from the last time" but as the American clubs continue to cherry pick England's Top Stars women's football is Women's Football heading for a downward spiral likes the men's game as money begins to destroy our beautiful game at a female level the New FA;s Super League will be a benchmark as to whether it is the case. The Premiership and Foreign players have ruined English Football and destroyed the National England Team how long before it has similar ratifications on the English Women's game as the FA Launch its new delayed Super League the difference between the Top Few Women's Teams in the Super League will only be as good as the Lucrative Money they pump out believing they can buy a team as local talent falls by the wayside and is given the boot by clubs who believe they can buy success at any price but with Football Clubs up and down the land in financial turmoil in England. How long will it be before such clubs take the approach and believe a Women's Football Team is a drain on their resources as they struggle to survive. However, as the FA Finalises plans for its new Super League Success will ultimately come to the highest bidder who ploughs the most money in sadly for Leeds Carngie there Super League hopes crashed before getting off the ground as the financial reality finally hit home as Bachman Turner Overdrive once sung " You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet " as football and money combines to press the self destruct button and while the New Women's FA Superb League on home shores may well prevent some players from going aboard the Glitz and Glamour of the Sun Shine States and bigger money offers from overseas will not. Pictured - Fara Williams and Lianne Sanderson