Big change as key managerial departure is confirmed for Sheffield Wednesday Ladies

The Owlesses have had a difficult couple of years during the pandemic, with seasons being curtailed and a severe lack of senior games being played, but it appears they’re using the period to take a step up as a football club.

Higgins, who is also the chairman of the club and runs it alongside his wife, Julie, confirmed to The Star that he will remain in his role and that she will stay on as club secretary, but in a bid to reach the next level they have gone in search of a new manager.

He explained, “After more than a decade, I’ve decided to step down from my position as manager of the Sheffield Wednesday Ladies… I’m still going to be heavily involved as chairman, but as we strive to reach new heights following our promotion last season, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to bring in a new manager.

“We think we’ve found the right person for that, and they’re also going to be bringing in a technical team to help us improve the standard and professionalism of our setup.

“It’s been emotional, and we’ve had a great time, the players have been like a family to us, but it feels like the right thing to do at this time, even though myself and Julie will miss it.”

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Higgins, who was manager of the U18s in 2009/10, stepped up to the SWLFC team ahead of the 2010/11 season when the senior team at the time sadly closed down, with his youngsters taking on that mantle.

Since then he’s been in charge of over 250 matches and been involved with three promotions – most recently the jump to the North East Women's Regional Football League Premier Division after their impressive 2019/20 was cut short while they were on top of the table.

His daughter, Emily, has also just retired after 15 years of service to SWLFC – a spell even longer than her old man.

The new manager will be announced in due course, with the team set to return for preseason training next month as they look to get off to a good start in 2021/22 under the new boss.

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