THE PREMIER LEAGUE will pour £1million per season into plans to boost the third and fourth tiers of the women’s game over the next three years.
The financial backing was revealed by the FA as part of a strategy to ramp up infrastructure and player development in the divisions.
The Football Association’s efforts will focus on eight areas identified as priorities for the game in the two tiers below the WSL and the Women’s Championship.
These include improving the playing and training environment for footballers, boosting refereeing standards and bringing in more commercial backers.
And Prem chiefs say additional backing in the form of grants to renovate grounds will be available via the Premier League Stadium Fund
Eligible clubs can apply for funds for up to £20,000 to refurb stadium facilities in need of a revamp.
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Prem chief executive Richard Masters said: “Our clubs are committed to developing women’s and girls’ football and it’s important that the Premier League plays a role in this centrally.
“It is an exciting time for women’s football in this country and we are delighted to be able to assist the development of the game
“We are proud to help develop football at all levels and this funding expands on the wide-ranging support we provide.”
Football chiefs also hope to increase the numbers of female managers in the sport’s third and fourth tiers.
This includes coaches from historically underrepresented communities.
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Plans will also include a review of the league’s competition’s structure and the introduction of a minimum requirement for clubs to meet in terms of player development.
FA women’s football director Baroness Sue Campbell said: “The launch of this strategy is game-changing for the women’s football pyramid.
“It will ensure the WNL can maintain pace with the wider growth of the women’s game, and the clubs and their players can thrive both on and off the pitch.”
“The money they (the Premier League) are investing will transform the experience of everyone who plays in the third and fourth tiers of women’s football.”