Coventry City Ladies Chairman Dave Singleton has been talking about the decision of Charlton Athletic to eradicate their women's teams including the first team,Academy and Centre of Excellence, following the mens team relegation from the FA Premier League.
"We're devasted that Charlton who have long been committed to the development of Ladies football has chosen to take this dramatic course of action,"said Singleton.
"It's true that the Directors of Charlton invested heavily into the Ladies as part of their commitment to the community program, and their relegation to the Championship has forced them into heavy financial cut backs.
"At Coventry City Ladies, we're convinced that an active ladies set up as part of the community program within the men's club makes a positive contribution to both clubs, the City and not to mention an environment where girls can develop a talent that is the fastest growing female participative sport in the country, if not the world.
"It comes at a time where CCLFC is growing and has enjoyed a fantastic season. With some player signings to come this summer we're sure of an exciting season playing local against fellow promotional hopefuls Leicester and Wolves.
I hope that Charlton rethink their plans, especially the Centre of Excellence which is FA Funded. They have talented players and committed staff who are known throughout the country, and admired by many aspiring junior players who want to play in the Premiership and for their Country."
Two players affected by the decision are Michelle Hickmott who played for City Ladies three seasons ago and Natasha Dowie, Niece of City boss Iain. Hickmott,a former England U21 international is expected to sign for Birmingham City whilst Dowie will have to move to a WPL club due to being on an FA scholarship.
Dave Singleton left in conversation with Gary Hopkins
"We're devasted that Charlton who have long been committed to the development of Ladies football has chosen to take this dramatic course of action,"said Singleton.
"It's true that the Directors of Charlton invested heavily into the Ladies as part of their commitment to the community program, and their relegation to the Championship has forced them into heavy financial cut backs.
"At Coventry City Ladies, we're convinced that an active ladies set up as part of the community program within the men's club makes a positive contribution to both clubs, the City and not to mention an environment where girls can develop a talent that is the fastest growing female participative sport in the country, if not the world.
"It comes at a time where CCLFC is growing and has enjoyed a fantastic season. With some player signings to come this summer we're sure of an exciting season playing local against fellow promotional hopefuls Leicester and Wolves.
I hope that Charlton rethink their plans, especially the Centre of Excellence which is FA Funded. They have talented players and committed staff who are known throughout the country, and admired by many aspiring junior players who want to play in the Premiership and for their Country."
Two players affected by the decision are Michelle Hickmott who played for City Ladies three seasons ago and Natasha Dowie, Niece of City boss Iain. Hickmott,a former England U21 international is expected to sign for Birmingham City whilst Dowie will have to move to a WPL club due to being on an FA scholarship.
Dave Singleton left in conversation with Gary Hopkins