Starling Bank

Southampton FC Women has announced Starling Bank as its official principal partner for the 2022-2023 season, with the bank’s logo set to feature on the front of players’ shirts.

The partnership was launched during a celebration event at the team’s Sunday 30th of October match against Sunderland AFC Women, where fans were treated to live performances from the Saints Brass band and the club’s new resident DJ. Games, giveaways, sweet treats, and photo opportunities.

The sponsorship is a continuation of Starling’s celebration of women’s football, following the bank’s national sponsorship of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022, which saw Starling launch the first fantasy football game for women’s football in the UK and award £23,000 in grants to grassroots teams.

The bank, which has 400 employees in Southampton as well as offices in London and Cardiff, aims to keep the momentum going in women’s football to highlight the glass ceilings that have been smashed for women in sport, technology, and banking.

Marieanne Spacey-Cale, Head Coach of Southampton FC Women said: “We’re all delighted to welcome Starling onboard as our Official Principal Partner. This is an exciting time for the team as our first season in the championship. To have the backing and support of Starling, an organisation that’s fully committed to growing the women’s game is really motivating. We look forward to our first match showcasing Starling and beyond as the season goes on.”

As part of the partnership, together Starling and Southampton will also launch an initiative to develop grassroots coaches at local clubs throughout Hampshire to grow the pipeline of female footballing talent.

Rachel Kerrone, Brand & Marketing Director at Starling Bank comments, “Sponsoring Southampton Football Club Women reinforces Starling’s commitment to supporting up-and-coming female football players as we try to level the playing field through equal training opportunities and dedicated resources.”

Sarah Batters, Director of Marketing and Partnerships at Southampton Football Club, adds: “It was important for us to find a partner that was prepared to invest in the women's game - going further than just putting a logo on a shirt. From the moment we started conversations with Starling bank, their commitment to making an impact to the success of the women's game with their sponsorship was clear - and we can't wait to get started. We hope to see a record attendance for this Sunday’s big game against Sunderland where we will showcase Starling Bank on the front of our women's shirt for the very first time.”