England Championship. Super League 2. Women
The England Women's Championship, known as FA Women's National League Division One or Super League 2, is the second tier of women's football in England. It features ambitious clubs battling for promotion to the top-flight Women's Super League (WSL), competing for national glory and European spots. This league acts as a vital stepping stone for emerging talents shaping the future of global women's football.
History and foundation
Established in 2011 from the restructured FA Women's Premier League into Northern and Southern Divisions, it became part of the FA Women's National League in 2018. Notable moments: the 2020 season halted by COVID, with Blackburn Rovers topping the North; Liverpool F.C. Women earned promotion after strong runs here. Southern Division record holders include Reading (two titles), while Durham clinched the North in 2023.
Tournament format
Split into Northern and Southern Divisions (12 teams each), clubs play a double round-robin (22 matches). Winners of each division earn automatic promotion to WSL; bottom two relegate to Division Two. Play-offs between 2nd and 3rd decide the second spot. Season runs August to May, emphasizing youth development and facilities.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 3.2, showcasing attacking flair. Top scorers include Ellen White's early exploits before WSL stardom, and modern stars like Jessie Fishlock (20+ goals for Bristol City) or Natasha Harding. Standouts: Jill Scott, ex-England captain, honed skills here; current gems like Layla Williams (Liverpool) and Abigail Remye (Southampton) shine, fueling the Lionesses' pipeline.