Sunderland’s bid for promotion to Women's Championship is successful

Sunderland have been successful in their bid to win promotion to the FA Women's Championship.

It is a major boost for Mel Reay's side, who had seen their last National League North campaignscurtailedduetothe Covid-19 pandemic.

With the best points-pergame average in the division in that time (and a strong cup record), they were well placed when the FA confirmed its intention to open up an application process for promotion to the second tier.

However, the club had to put forward a comprehensive proposal to meet the licencing criteria.

Sunderland's excellent record in producing playings through the regional talent centrehascontinuedinrecent times and was integral to the success of the bid.

"Applicationsweremarked againstacriteriaweighted75% on-field and 25% off-field," an FA statement said.

"The on-field criteria considered aspects such as points per game, cup performances and goal difference, across the last two seasons.

"The off-field section marked clubs on areas such as club structure, workforce and facilities.

"Clubs applying to move into the FA Women’s Championship

also had to demonstrate that they would be able to meet the required licence criteria."

Sunderlandwillbejoinedin the12-teamChampionshipfor next season by Watford, who were also successful in applyingforpromotionfromtheNational League South.

Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman has stressed the new executive regime's commitment to women's footballinthecityandsaidtheclub could now move forward with improving the infrastructures around the team.

"We are delighted to have been awarded FA Women's Championship status and we thank the FA panel for approving our application," Speakman said.

"Thissuccessisatestament toLeannCowperthwaite[Head of Academy Operations], who project managed the submission, and to the collaboration between our football and businessoperations,whoproduced adetailedproposaldespitefacing a quick turnaround.

"It also represents a tangible reward for Mel and the team for their stellar record over the last 24 months and we now look forward to delivering on our plan and building our infrastructure to support theplayersandstaffduringthe upcoming campaign."