Roger Hampel
The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) proudly announces the launch of the second season of the Women’s Football Clubs Development Fund Program. This initiative underscores SAFF’s unwavering commitment to the growth and promotion of women’s football across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Enhanced Support and Increased Funding
For the 2024-25 season, SAFF has increased the total support fund to SAR 60 million, a substantial SAR 10 million rise from the previous season. This financial boost reflects the Federation’s dedication to advancing women’s football and supporting the burgeoning talent within the sport.
Expanding Reach: Support for 70 Women’s Football Clubs
Building on the success of its inaugural season, the program will now extend its support to 70 women’s football clubs. These clubs will participate in various competitions, including:
SAFF Women's Premier League
SAFF Women's First Division League
SAFF Women's Second Division League
SAFF Women's Cup
SAFF Women’s U-17 Tournament
Women’s Futsal Tournament
New Criteria for Continuous Growth Saudi Arabian Women’s Football
To ensure the sustained growth and professional development of women’s football, SAFF has introduced new criteria for participating clubs. These requirements are designed to enhance various aspects of club operations, including:
Sponsorship: Clubs must attract sponsors.
Scouting: Appointment of an official scout.
Medical: Appointment of a doctor and issuance of medical reports.
Fans: Encouraging increased match attendance.
Nutrition: Appointment of a nutrition specialist.
Technology: Use of GPS for player fitness assessment.
Women’s Futsal: Establishment of an organizational structure, appointment of a head coach, and a team manager.
Expanded Existing Criteria
In addition to new requirements, existing criteria from last season have been expanded. Clubs must now include a video analyst in their technical staff and appoint a women’s football supervisor as part of the administrative staff. The criteria for Under-17 teams have also been broadened to include a team manager, an assistant coach, a fitness coach, and a goalkeeper coach.
Commitment to Excellence
Lamia Bahaian, Vice President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, emphasized the progress and future ambitions for women’s football:
"We've seen incredible progress in women's football over the past year, and the increased support fund for this season is a clear indication of our commitment to pushing even further. Our aim is to create more opportunities for women in football and build a strong foundation for the sport in Saudi Arabia."
Significant Achievements and Future Goals
Last season, significant strides were made, including the hiring of 18 Saudi coaches, with 91% of clubs' head coaches now holding an A coaching license. Additionally, 24% of clubs have coaches with a pro license, highlighting the increasing professionalization within women's football.
Other notable achievements include the establishment of Under-17 teams by 56% of the clubs, providing a platform for young female footballers to hone their skills. The commitment to nurturing homegrown talent is further evident with 87 professional contracts signed with Saudi players, marking a significant milestone in the development of women's football in the Kingdom.
Source: SAFF MEDIA
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