A New Era for Everton Women: Goodison Park Becomes Home to the WSL Side
Everton Football Club has announced a groundbreaking decision that will reshape the landscape of women’s football in England. Following the men’s team’s move to the state-of-the-art Bramley-Moore Dock stadium next season, Goodison Park, the club’s historic home for 132 years, will become the dedicated venue for Everton Women. This momentous shift marks a significant investment in women’s football and underscores the club’s commitment to fostering the growth and development of the women’s game.
The decision to repurpose Goodison Park for the women’s team represents a departure from previous plans, which included demolishing the iconic stadium. Under the previous ownership, the site was earmarked for a mixed-use development encompassing housing, retail spaces, a care home, and a park. However, following the acquisition of the club by The Friedkin Group in December, the new owners opted to preserve Goodison Park and integrate it into the club’s legacy project.
This decision marks a significant milestone for Everton Women, who currently play their home matches at the smaller Walton Hall Park. With a capacity of 39,572, Goodison Park will become the largest dedicated women’s football stadium in England, providing a platform for the team to grow its fanbase and elevate the profile of women’s football in the region. The move signifies a commitment to providing the women’s team with the resources and infrastructure necessary to compete at the highest level.
The transition to Goodison Park also acknowledges the significant strides made in women’s football in recent years. The growing popularity and increasing professionalism of the women’s game have created a demand for larger stadiums and enhanced facilities. Everton’s decision to allocate Goodison Park to the women’s team aligns with this trajectory of growth and demonstrates the club’s belief in the continued expansion of women’s football.
Everton Women’s captain, Megan Finnigan, expressed her excitement about the move, emphasizing the significance of Goodison Park’s heritage and close ties to the local community. The stadium’s rich history and passionate fanbase will provide a unique and inspiring backdrop for the women’s team to flourish. Finnigan views the move as a testament to the current state and future potential of women’s football.
Everton Chief Executive, Angus Kinnear, echoed Finnigan’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of preserving Goodison Park’s legacy within the club’s broader vision. He acknowledged the challenges involved in ensuring the success of this venture, both practically and economically, but expressed confidence in the club’s ability to overcome these obstacles. The commitment to Goodison Park as the women’s team’s home ground demonstrates a long-term vision for the growth and sustainability of women’s football at Everton. The stadium will also host some of the club’s youth academy matches, further strengthening the link between the club’s past, present, and future. This holistic approach to player development and community engagement underscores Everton’s dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a strong connection with its supporters.
