Women's Premiership: Sion Swifts withdraw from top flight

Sion Swifts have announced their withdrawal from the Sports Direct Premiership with immediate effect.

The club, which finished fourth in the top-flight last season, say they will continue to play under the Northern Ireland Women's Football Association (NIWFA).

Sion also got to the final of the Women's Premiership League Cup last season, where they lost 3-1 to Cliftonville Ladies at Stangmore Park. They won that same trophy in 2022, whilst they also lifted the Women's Challenge Cup back in 2017

A Sion Swifts spokesperson confirmed they will instead play in the NIWFA where it will focus its efforts on rebuilding and strengthening the club.

The club has also agreed for the current management team to step down and expressed their gratitude to Stephen Gray, Stephen Bulger and Thomas Elliott for their work to date. The Club has also taken the opportunity to extend its thanks to NIFL for their ongoing support over the years.

The spokesperson said: “This has been a very difficult decision for the club and while it is deeply regrettable, we believe it is in the best interests of the club, its players and supporters. We look forward to participating in the NIWFA and would like to reassure everyone associated with the club that we remain committed to the continued development of this fantastic club by working with our grassroots to encourage positive co-operation of the sport.

“Everyone associated with Sion Swifts is determined to work collectively to strengthen and develop the team. Sion Swifts Ladies and Girls FC is committed to grow the club and continue with its important work to empower girls and young women to participate in the sport. We are very grateful to the support we have received to date and look forward to build on our existing fanbase in our upcoming matches.”

A statement released on the Northern Ireland Football League website, the body said the new league season would begin as scheduled with the remaining nine Premiership clubs:

"The NI Football League have today (Monday) regrettably received confirmation that Sion Swifts Ladies have withdrawn from the Sports Direct Women’s Premiership with immediate effect," the statement read.

"The Sports Direct Women’s Premiership will continue as scheduled with the nine remaining clubs for the upcoming 2024 season.

"NIFL will meet with the clubs at the earliest opportunity to confirm the impact of this late withdrawal on the fixture schedule, participation in cup competitions and promotion & relegation.

"We wish Sion Swifts Ladies every success going forward and thank them for their contribution during their time in the league."