Portsmouth Women's Journey to Championship
- Portsmouth Women's team rises from lower divisions to prepare for Championship match.
- Half of the floodlights at the stadium didn't work during their preparation at Charlton.
- The team is eager to make a mark in the upcoming Championship opener.
Portsmouth is undergoing significant changes as it prepares for its inaugural season in the Women’s Championship following promotion. The club is enhancing its facilities, including the television gantry, to meet broadcasting standards for a second-tier team. Manager Sadler has been deeply involved in the transition, dedicating extensive hours to ensure the club's infrastructure is ready. Reflecting on the journey from grassroots to professional football, Sadler acknowledges the challenges faced over the past 14 months, including late nights and stress, but remains optimistic about the future. Sadler's tenure began in 2016 with a memorable 5-1 victory over Swindon Town, and since then, he has worked tirelessly to build the team’s capabilities. The squad has evolved from training once a week in a small indoor facility to now practicing four times a week, marking a significant step forward. The team’s success last season, winning all 11 home league games, has set a strong foundation for their new professional status. As Portsmouth prepares for its Championship opener against Charlton on September 8, the players are adjusting to the demands of the new league. The goalkeeper, who earned accolades for her performance last season, expressed that the promotion still feels surreal. The team is now training at their shared facility with the men’s non-league side, Havant & Waterlooville, as they aim to establish themselves in the Championship. With a focus on not just survival but also competitiveness in the league, players like Haughton are determined to make an impact. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, the team is committed to rising to the occasion and achieving their goals in this new chapter.