New Fordley FC Women (famously known as the “New Fordley Vixens”) is the senior women’s branch of New Fordley Juniors FC. Based in Annitsford, they are a prominent community club that bridges the gap between the North Tyneside and Northumberland football scenes.
📜 Club Overview & History
- Home Ground: Annitsford Welfare (Annitsford Sports Ground), Barrass Gardens (NE23 7RB).
- Colours: Primarily Blue and Yellow.
- Identity: The “Vixens” branding was established as the club’s first venture into senior 11-a-side women’s football.
- Milestone: The club is a registered charity and an FA Accredited club, known for its significant investment in facilities, including the state-of-the-art pavilion at Annitsford Welfare.
⚽ Competitive Standing (2025/26 Season)
- League Level: The Vixens compete in the Northumberland Football Leagues (Women’s Division 1).
- Experience: For the 2025/26 season, the team is entering its fourth year of senior competitive play. They have established themselves as a “tough to beat” mid-table side that balances high-intensity matches with a supportive environment.
- Recent Form: They are known for a strong home record at Annitsford, where the local “village” support provides a distinct advantage against travelling city teams.
📈 The “Vixens” Pathway
New Fordley is highly regarded for its structured transition from youth to adult football:
- Junior Foundation: The club operates multiple girls’ teams (often designated as “Yellows” and “Blues”) from U7 through to U16.
- The Vixens Squad: The senior team is a “true” community squad, featuring a diverse mix of university students, school-age prospects graduating from the juniors, and full-time working mothers.
- Coaching: The side has long been led by club stalwarts Geoff Hedley and Paul Brydon, who emphasize skill-based drills and a tactical “match practice” approach to training.
🤝 Culture & Ethos
- “Made of Tough Stuff”: The club’s own description of the Vixens highlights their resilience. They pride themselves on a “not for the faint-hearted” approach to the 90-minute game while maintaining a high level of sportsmanship.
- Inclusive Environment: The ethos is centered on the “common love for the beautiful game.” They actively hold open trials in early summer to ensure the team remains accessible to women in the Annitsford, Dudley, and Cramlington areas.
- Sponsorship: The team is well-supported by local businesses (such as The Gas Lass), reflecting the strong local ties between the club and the Annitsford community.