FA Women's National League fourth-tier club Moneyfields FC announces equal pay model

Following a successful season where our men’s team won the Velocity Wessex Premier Division, our women’s team was victorious in the PDFA Women’s Senior Cup and our season also included a record-breaking run into the Fourth Round of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup.

Everyone involved at Moneyfields Football Club is excited to share that for the 2024/25 season, we are taking huge steps towards equality with us now having finance to take the players semi-professional.

The club has been building to this day by increasing the women’s budget each season, with the club’s board being inspired by the Lionesses’ European Championships victory in 2022. This is another step towards pay parity between the men’s and women's teams.

First Team Manager, Karl Watson, said, “I’m extremely proud that Moneyfields Football Club is committed to moving towards a Parity & Equality model.

“Our players can now look forward to becoming semi-professional paid players. The players have the same jobs and financial and domestic burdens, so it is only right that we strive to move towards Parity & Equality.

“Don’t get me wrong it’s not a full-time salary by any stretch but it is a huge step in the right direction. Of all the things that we’ve achieved at this club I think this is the one I’m most proud of.”

Charley Wilson-Wilton. Photo: Tom Phillips

Captain, Charley Wilson-Wilton added, “I have been in the game for a long time now and I still remember having to pay considerable sums just to be able to play, much like many players are still doing today.

“At that point in my career, I’ll be honest, I didn’t see a time when I would be paid to do what I love. We have seen the likes of Lewes set the tone for equality and I’m proud that my club recognises the value of its women’s team and is moving towards a parity and equality model.

“With this increased investment there will also be added pressure but as the Billie Jean King quote goes, pressure is a privilege.”

Moneyfields Women begin their 2024/25 season at the end of August and expect to have moved into their newly refurbished home, the John Jenkins stadium in time for the start of pre-season. Check out the progress here.

By ensuring equal pay, Moneyfields can truly be a club for all within the community, regardless of gender, and continue to grow and thrive.