Southampton FC Women Cashes In On Bank Partnership
Southampton FC Women has announced a new partnership with Starling Bank, which sees the London-headquartered company become the team’s principal partner for the 2022/23 football season.
The agreement, which will be launched during the team’s upcoming match against Sunderland AFC Women on 30th October, will see Starling’s logo feature on the front of the players’ shirts.
According to a statement, the new partnership ‘is a continuation of Starling’s celebration of women’s football’ and follows Starling Bank’s sponsorship of the 2022 UEFA European Women’s Football Championship, where England’s Lionesses lifted the trophy after defeating Germany 2-1 in extra time.
Together, Starling and Southampton will also launch an initiative to develop grassroots coaches at local clubs throughout Hampshire to grow the pipeline of female footballing talent.
The aim of the bank is to maintain the momentum in women’s football and Southampton emulate this as their previous two seasons have seen back-to-back promotions as the team now play in the FA Women’s Championship. The Saints Women have seen a 120% increase in season ticket sales compared to last season. All the games this season will be played at the club’s 32,384-capacity St Mary’s stadium to drive growth.
Marieanne Spacey-Cole, Head Coach of Southampton FC women, said, “We’re all delighted to welcome Starling onboard as our official principal partner. This is an exciting time for the team as our first season in the championship. To have the backing and support of Starling, an organisation that’s fully committed to growing the women’s game, is really motivating. We look forward to our first match showcasing Starling and beyond as the season goes on.”
Jill Scott MBE, a former Lioness and Ambassador for Starling Bank, added, “It’s fantastic to see the investment and passion for women’s football continue. Funding, training and development at grassroots level is essential to help take the game to the next level.”
Rachel Kerrone, Brand and Marketing Director at Starling Bank, expressed, “Sponsoring Southampton Women’s Football Club reinforces Starling’s commitment to supporting up-and-coming female football players as we try to level the playing field through equal training opportunities and dedicated resources.”
The women’s game continues to see rapid growth. Recently, DAZN announced EA SPORTS as the newest partner of its UEFA Champions League broadcast coverage.
