Hopkins address to the fans on our new look Women’s team, the Community Trust and the upcoming season.
Ahead of a new season, Emma Hopkins has been confirmed as the new Reading FC Women's Head of Football as she addresses the fans ahead of a new season.
After a summer that has brought plenty of changes to the Women's team, our new Head of Women's Football was keen to address supporters on what comes next for the team. After the Women's team now has been taken on by the Community Trust, what does that mean for the team, Hopkins also discusses the announcements coming up in the next couple of weeks, and the importance of your support over the summer as we gear up to go again.
As many of you know, our women’s team recently went through some significant changes. The decision to take a voluntary relegation has moved us from the Barclays Women’s Championship to Tier 5, the Southern Region Women’s Football League. This decision also means that our Women’s Team will now be run by the Reading FC Community Trust. But what does this really mean for us?
The Community Trust at Reading FC embodies our values of inclusivity, community, and development. By integrating the Women’s team and girls' pathway into the Trust, we ensure that our players receive unparalleled support both on and off the pitch. This allows us to focus on holistic development, providing our players with the resources they need to excel as athletes and as individuals.
We have worked tirelessly to ensure that there is still a full pathway for our young players, with the ETC, U13, and U15 teams continuing for the 2024-25 season. Additionally, we are taking on the senior team and positioning them to be competitive and successful this season.
For our team, this change heralds a new era. We are focused on creating a nurturing environment that prioritizes growth, resilience, and determination. Our ambitions are high, and we are determined to make this comeback story one for the history books. Our season ticket campaign, fittingly themed 'Comeback,' reflects this spirit and our resolve to rise and reclaim our place at the top, with more information on this to be announced very soon.
To our loyal fans, your unwavering support has been our beacon through these challenging times. Your dedication and passion have not gone unnoticed. We are incredibly grateful for your constant encouragement and belief in our team. As we navigate this period of transformation, your role becomes even more vital. We need your voices, your energy, and your faith as we embark on this new chapter.
Looking ahead, we will soon be announcing our managerial appointment and introducing a fresh new squad, which we hope you can fully get behind and support. We are also finalising our pre-season calendar, and soon we’ll be able to share with you to our new 'home' for the women's team. So make sure you watch this space!
In closing, I want to thank you once again for your incredible support. The comeback story starts here.
With gratitude and excitement,
Emma Hopkins
Head of Women's Football
Reading FC Women