Kilkenny United WFC join Continental Women's National League

On Friday afternoon it was confirmed by the Football Association of Ireland that Kilkenny United WFC have joined the Women’s National League. After the withdrawal of Shamrock Rovers after the 2013-14 season, the WNL was left with just seven teams and last February the FAI invited clubs to join the submit  an application to enter the league.

With the addition of Kilkenny United WFC into the Women’s National League, there will be eight teams contesting the 2015-16 campaign, Cork City Women, Wexford Youths, Shelbourne Ladies FC, UCD Waves, Castlebar Celtic, Galway WFC and Kilkenny United WFC.

Speaking after the announcement, League Director Fran Gavin revealed that they had been in discussion for several months and he was pleased to welcome them into the Women’s National League.

"We are pleased to announce Kilkenny United WFC as the eighth club in the Continental Tyres Women's National League," said Gavin.

"We have been in discussions with the club for several months now and we see the club playing an important part in the development of the women’s game in Kilkenny and surrounding areas."

As part of the agreement Kilkenny United WFC will play their home fixtures at Buckley Park, which was the home of Kilkenny City during their brief spell in the League of Ireland.

A delighted Kilkenny United WFC Chairman Shane Murray was thankful for the opportunity that has been presented to his club and is aware of the work which is needed to continue the growth of Women’s football in Kilkenny.

"The committee of Kilkenny United WFC are delighted to enter the Continental Tyres WNL for the 2015-16 season. We would like to thank the WNL Committee for their support and acceptance," said Kilkenny United WFC chairman Shane Murray.

"This club will continue to work with Kilkenny League promoting women's football in Kilkenny and surrounding counties. This is a great opportunity for players to make next step into the highest level of women's football in Ireland."

The 2015-16 Continental Tyres Women's National League will kick-off week-ending Sunday, September 6 and the fixtures for the new season will be announced in due course.