The Football Association has approved Sunderland AFC Ladies’ application to join the FA Women’s Championship for the 2021-22 season.
The club submitted a comprehensive bid to return to the second tier in May, which was underpinned by a long-term commitment to enhance community engagement and develop the long-standing and highly successful Regional Talent Centre.
On the pitch, Mel Reay’s side also recorded the highest points-per-game average over the past two seasons in the FA Women’s National League North.
SAFC Ladies won the FA Women's Premier League National Division in 2011, 2012 and 2013 before securing the inaugural FA WSL 2 title in 2014, whilst also lifting the FA Women's Premier League Cup in 2012.
The Lasses continue to record a constant presence within the England women's national team set-up, with seven of the Lionesses’ 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup squad previously featuring on Wearside, including captain Steph Houghton and reigning FIFA Women's World Player of the Year Lucy Bronze.
SAFC Ladies’ return to the FA Women’s Championship will see the second tier expand to a 12-team format.
Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman said: “We are delighted to have been awarded FA Women’s Championship status and we thank the FA panel for approving our application. This success is a testament to Leann Cowperthwaite, who project managed the submission, and to the collaboration between our football and business operations, who produced a detailed proposal despite facing a quick turnaround. It also represents a tangible reward for Mel and the team for their stellar record over the past 24 months and we now look forward to delivering on our plan and building our infrastructure to support the players and staff during the upcoming campaign.”