The FA Women’s National League (WNL) has today confirmed a series of progressive developments for its cup competitions that will further strengthen tiers three and four of the women’s football pyramid.
For the first time, sides participating in the FA WNL’s two cup competitions – the FA WNL Plate and FA WNL Cup – will be competing for prize money. The investment is a reflection of the growth of the FA WNL over the last few seasons in parallel with the wider women’s game, and will ensure the league’s member clubs can continue to invest in their development.
A determining round of fixtures takes place at the start of the season, with the winning sides entering the Cup and the remaining sides entering the Plate. From the 2024/25 season, the determining round will now take place in midweek in order to accommodate more league fixtures taking place in weekend slots. The draw for the determining round will be structured to minimise travel.
The FA WNL has also announced it will be forming a new relationship with the Professional Game Academies from the new season, with PGA sides invited to enter the FA WNL Plate. The move will grow and strengthen the existing relationships between the Barclays Women’s Super League, Barclays Women’s Championship and FA Women’s National League, whilst boosting player development opportunities and giving young players more competitive senior minutes.
With thanks to the FA
