Are Everton Women Ready to Make Goodison Their New Home?

Goodison Park is set to become the largest dedicated women's stadium in England, marking a significant milestone for Everton's women's team as they transition into their new home. This historic move highlights the growing recognition and investment in women's football, offering a platform for the team to thrive.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Goodison Park has officially become the permanent home for Everton's women's team.
• The stadium will witness its first Women's Super League match on Sunday at 14:30 BST.
• Major renovations have been made to adapt the venue for a dedicated women's audience.
• The Friedkin Group's takeover has led to a renewed focus on the women's game at Everton.
• Everton women aim to build on their rich history while embracing a new era at Goodison.

The New Era Begins at Goodison Park

On Sunday, a momentous occasion will unfold as Everton takes to the pitch at Goodison Park, marking the first time the women's team will play at the historic stadium as their permanent home. The fixture against Tottenham Hotspur is not just a match; it represents a profound shift in the landscape of women's football in the UK.

Previously, Everton's women's team had played at Goodison Park as guests during special events. The last such occasion was in November 2024, when they faced Liverpool in a thrilling Merseyside derby. However, the transition to a dedicated women's venue signifies a substantial commitment to the growth of women's football.

Goodison Park: A Stadium with a Legacy

Goodison Park has been a cornerstone of Everton's identity since its establishment 133 years ago. With a capacity of 39,572, it is now poised to be the largest dedicated women's stadium in England. The transition comes after the men’s team moved to the newly constructed Hill Dickinson Stadium on Liverpool's waterfront.

Defender Kenzie Weir, whose father, David Weir, is a former Scotland international and Everton legend, expressed her excitement, saying, "It's ours." This sentiment resonates deeply within the squad, as they prepare to honour the legacy of the club while forging their own path.

Transformations at Goodison Park

The transformation of Goodison Park into a venue suited for women's football involves several key changes. The upper tiers of the Main Stand, Bullens Road Stand, and Howard Kendall Gwladys Street End will be adorned with club branding, enhancing the matchday experience for fans.

Everton women's CEO, Hannah Forshaw, explained that "minor changes" have been made to the concourse levels to better accommodate the new audience. Additionally, the club is trialling alcohol sales within the stands, a significant shift in the matchday atmosphere.

"This is not just bricks and mortar," Forshaw noted. "That's a stadium with a soul that means a lot to a lot of people." The club aims to involve fans in shaping the matchday experience while respecting the stadium's rich heritage.

A Look Back at Everton's Women's Team History

Everton has a storied history in women's football, having once been at the forefront of the sport in the UK. The team won a league title in 1998 and reached the quarter-finals of the Women's Champions League in 2011. However, under previous ownership, their performance waned, failing to compete effectively against dominant teams like Arsenal and Chelsea.

With the Friedkin Group now at the helm, there is renewed optimism. The group, known for their success in women's football with Roma, aims to revitalise Everton’s women's team by attracting top talent and improving their competitive stature in the Women's Super League (WSL).

Building Towards a Competitive Future

As they embark on this new chapter, Everton's women's team is focused on building a competitive squad. The recent transfer window saw the arrival of nine new players, including the promising Ornella Vignola, who made headlines with a hat-trick against Liverpool on her debut.

Forshaw emphasised the importance of fostering a competitive environment, stating, "Our ambition is to be competitive, continue to attract those star players that will continue to move us up the league." The team's belief in their potential is palpable, and there is a collective understanding that success will take time.

Fan Engagement and Matchday Experience

Engaging with fans plays a crucial role in the women's team's vision for success at Goodison Park. Forshaw is keen to hear from supporters about their expectations and experiences, ensuring that the club evolves alongside its audience. The club's approach reflects a desire to create a welcoming environment that resonates with both long-time fans and newcomers to women's football.

Head coach Brian Sorensen noted the progress at Goodison Park, stating, "Every time we come there's progress." The blend of modern renovations with the stadium's historical elements is crucial in creating a unique matchday atmosphere that players can thrive in.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While the transition to Goodison Park represents a significant opportunity for Everton's women's team, challenges remain. The need to establish a strong competitive presence in the WSL is paramount. Forshaw has cautioned against expecting immediate league triumphs but encourages supporters to envision a long-term growth trajectory.

As they navigate this new era, the women's team is determined to build on the legacy of their predecessors while crafting their narrative at one of football's most storied venues.

Conclusion

As Everton's women's team prepares to make Goodison Park their home, the excitement surrounding this new chapter is palpable. With a commitment to evolving the matchday experience and fostering a competitive squad, the club is poised to reclaim its place among the top teams in women's football. The coming seasons will be pivotal in determining how far they can go, not only in terms of performance but also in solidifying their presence as a cornerstone of women's football in the UK.

What does this new era at Goodison Park mean for the future of women's football in England? Only time will tell, but the foundations have been laid for something special. #EvertonWomen #GoodisonPark #WomensFootball

FAQs

What is the significance of Goodison Park for Everton's women's team?

Goodison Park has become the permanent home for Everton's women's team, marking it as the largest dedicated women's stadium in England. This transition represents a commitment to the growth of women's football.

When did Everton's women's team last play at Goodison Park before this season?

The last match Everton's women's team played at Goodison Park before this season was in November 2024 during a Merseyside derby against Liverpool.

What changes have been made to Goodison Park for the women's team's use?

Minor renovations have been made, including branding the upper tiers and modifying concourse levels to enhance the matchday experience. The club is also trialling alcohol sales in the stands.

What is the future vision for Everton's women's team?

The club aims to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for league titles while engaging with fans to create a welcoming matchday atmosphere at Goodison Park.

Who are some notable players in Everton's women's team?

Notable players include Ornella Vignola, who made a significant impact with a hat-trick on her debut, alongside other talented signings aimed at strengthening the squad.