On announcement of her appointment, Lawrence said, “I would like to thank Worthing for the opportunity. I have been out of the game for a while but I hope to repay the Club’s faith in me by developing a team the town can feel proud of”.
Worthing, who play in the South East Counties League Premier Division will start preseason training on 7th July 2019.
As well as the new managerial appointment, it was also announced today that the team will change their name ahead of the upcoming season and will now be known as ‘Worthing Football Club Women’.
The switch from ‘Ladies’ to ‘Women’ is representative of a modern view on language and equality, and a change follows a trend within the game as clubs seek to modernise in a new era.
There may be instance’s when a gender or age group reference is required for clarity e.g. the men, the women, the U18’s etc but for the most part, the team will be referred to simply as Worthing [Football Club].
Team Captain, Hannah Hewlett commented, “the change is a positive and bold statement of intent as the club embarks on a new chapter in its history”. On Lawrence’s appointment, Hewlett added, “Credit to the club who have been able to appoint someone of Michelle’s calibre – with someone with such knowledge and experience in the women’s game steering the ship it’s certainly an exciting time to be involved at the club.”
Chairman, Peter Stone added, “Worthing Football Club is determined to build something that the community of Worthing can be proud of. Last season we invested a lot of time and effort in the Youth and Academy sections, whilst of course supporting Adam and the Men’s Team.
As part of our longer term strategy we are now pushing hard on several fronts on and off the pitch, and Michelle’s appointment is a statement of our commitment to women’s football.
In our discussions with Michelle, it was very clear that we have secured experience, talent and passion that will really drive us forward.”
Michelle is keen to grow the women’s team so if you are a player, coach or you have an interest in volunteering with the club, please email womensfootball@worthingfc.com
