An alliance of 52 Women's National League clubs that oppose plans for Women's Super League academy sides to be added to the third tier of the English pyramid have written to the Football Association to call for a vote on the matter.
The clubs, representing more than a two-thirds majority of the 72 FAWNL clubs competing in tiers three and four, believe the competition's rules entitle them to call for a special general meeting about the proposals.
Background of the Controversy
The Guardian revealed in May that the FA's plans had received approval from the FAWNL board and were set to be reviewed by higher decision-making bodies. The FA board would need to ratify any changes, with a final decision expected in July, aiming for the revamp to take effect from the summer of 2027.
However, a significant majority of clubs in the affected divisions are against the plans. They have expressed concerns about how the proposals were adopted by the board, criticizing the consultation process and now calling for a vote. A letter signed by 52 clubs was sent to the FA on Thursday morning. The FA has been contacted for a response.
Clubs Express Betrayal and Concerns
A representative of the alliance, a group of clubs acting on behalf of FAWNL clubs, told the Guardian: "Together with the vast majority of clubs within tiers three and four of the FAWNL, we feel betrayed by those that are supposed to represent us."
"Parachuting in academy teams filled with young players to compete against established women's teams is a disaster waiting to happen – injuries, fixture backlogs, and venue availability. Teams have fought for promotion for the privilege of playing at this level through the hard work of players, officials, and volunteers."
"Because the WSL are unable to get their own house in order, the FAWNL are bending over backwards to keep them happy, placing their academy teams straight into the tier-three Northern and Southern Premier divisions despite overwhelming objections and concerns."
Wolves Promotion Context
Wolves were promoted to WSL2 after beating Plymouth in May's National League Premier Division playoff, highlighting the competitive nature of the current system that clubs fear could be undermined.
The alliance's letter underscores the growing backlash against the FA's proposals, with clubs demanding a democratic vote to decide the future structure of the women's football pyramid.
