Lack of Communication and Uncertain Future: Reading Women’s Team at Risk
Introduction:
Charlie Estcourt, a Wales and Reading midfielder, has expressed her disappointment over the lack of communication from Reading officials regarding the future of the Royals’ women’s side. This comes after reports that the team and its girls’ academy could be shut down.
The Threat to Reading Women’s Section:
The potential closure of the Royals’ women’s section, which has produced talented players like Fran Kirby and Mary Earps, is a cause for concern among players and supporters. The FA recently rejected a takeover bid for the club, raising further uncertainties about the team’s future.
Limited Contracts and Warnings for the Girls’ Academy:
Currently, only two players from Reading Women’s senior side have contracts, adding to the anxiety surrounding the team’s future. Parents of girls in the Royals’ academy have been informed that there is no guarantee for the women’s football club and academy for the upcoming season.
Charlie Estcourt’s Concerns:
Charlie Estcourt, who helped her side finish tenth in the Women’s Championship last season, described the situation as a “worrying time” for the club. She expressed her disappointment in the lack of communication from the club and highlighted cost-cutting measures affecting all areas of the club.
Rumors Becoming Reality:
Initially dismissing rumors about the potential closure of the women’s side, Estcourt admitted that as the off-season progressed, there had been no updates from the club. With only a few weeks remaining on players’ contracts, the uncertainty has become increasingly real.
Poor Communication from Reading Officials:
Estcourt criticized the lack of communication from all levels of the club regarding the future of the women’s team. The absence of information has left players and staff in the dark about their fate, raising concerns about their professional futures.
Online Petition and Support for Reading Women:
Following the news of the potential closure, an online petition was created to save Reading Women. The petition, which had garnered over 3,000 signatures, is urging the FA to intervene and prevent the permanent dissolution of the team and its girls’ academy.
Restrictions on Players:
Despite the uncertain future, players who signed PGA academy contracts with Reading Women are currently prohibited from contacting other clubs. However, if the club were to lose its PGA academy status, these restrictions would no longer apply.
FA Requirement and July 1 Deadline:
The FA has reportedly set a deadline of July 1 for confirmation of Reading’s academy status. If this is not met, girls within the Royals’ academy will be free to explore opportunities with other clubs.
Parent’s Concerns and Discrepancies in Women’s Football:
A parent of a player within the Royals’ academy expressed their devastation over the potential threat to both the women’s team and the girls’ academy. They highlighted the struggles faced by Reading Women due to funding cuts and emphasized the disparity between the portrayal of professional women’s football and the reality faced by players outside of elite clubs.
Conclusion:
The lack of communication from Reading officials regarding the future of the Royals’ women’s team has created uncertainty and concern among players, supporters, and parents. The online petition calling on the FA to save the team highlights the desire for intervention and support. The fate of Reading Women’s team and academy hangs in the balance, with players and staff eagerly awaiting updates and hoping for a positive resolution.