"When Langley first took charge six years ago, as part of her role at Northumbria University, the Magpies operated independently with the support of the Newcastle United Foundation. They were plying their trade at Druid Park - a claustrophobic ground, where football would be played to the sound of intermittent airplanes flying overhead such was its proximity to Newcastle Airport. Langley enlisted help from her grandmother and mother to wash the players' bibs."
"But that all changed following the club's takeover in 2021. New co-owner Amanda Staveley revealed a five-year plan for the women's side to reach the top tier and in August 2022 the team officially became part of Newcastle United football club, allowing Langley to become the full-time manager. One year on they turned professional - a landmark moment which was sandwiched between back-to-back promotions - and last season they came a creditable fifth in their debut year in the second tier."
Becky Langley led Newcastle United Women from grassroots conditions to professional status over six years. Early operations relied on the Newcastle United Foundation and rudimentary facilities at Druid Park, with family helping with kit and gate money. A 2021 club takeover introduced a five-year plan and formal integration into Newcastle United in August 2022, enabling Langley to become full-time. The team turned professional the following year, achieved back-to-back promotions and finished fifth in their first Championship season. The club retains an explicit ambition to reach the Women’s Super League within the five-year plan, with time becoming a pressing factor.
Read at www.bbc.com
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