"It's good to be back" with SSFC Women, says Wootten

Jen Wootten says “it’s good to be back” with South Shields Women now pre-season has begun.

The lasses returned to training this week ahead of another testing NERWFL Premier Division campaign, which starts in exactly one month’s time. 

Although the time off was well-served, the team are no doubt looking forward to getting stuck in with the pre-season programme.

“It’s good to be back,” Wootten said. 

“It’s always nice to have a break after the season, especially when it’s so hectic towards the end, but I do miss it when we’re away.”

It’s been a fine week all round given England’s victory against Spain in the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 final on Sunday - Wootten had a keen eye on the final and she was “so invested” in how it went.

She explained: “I don’t think I sat down for the entire game!

“A great match in the end. 

“England stepped up in the second half, I had faith in us the whole way, I’m just so happy we got the win in the end!

“Amazing resilience and determination!”

History is constantly being made - whether that’s the Lionesses’ national successes, or smaller wins much closer to home such as Shields’ Adobe Women’s FA Cup run last season.

Wootten is hopeful that the Mariners can mount a similar challenge to last season, in both the league and the cups.

She said: “Of course, it’s always a target to do well in the league but also try and have a good cup run. 

“Especially after the run we had in the FA Cup last season, we will be pushing to do the same, if not better this season.”

First and foremost, she is looking forward to getting out there once again for the first game of pre-season, in just 10 days’ time.

“It’ll be great to be back playing on the pitch after the break and really get into the swing of things,” she finished. 

“There’s lots of changes happening so it’s important to get game time in before the season starts.”

The lasses visit newly-promoted FAWNL Division One North outfit Chester-le-Street Town Ladies on Sunday, August 10th. Full match details will be confirmed closer to matchday.

Image credit: Craig McNair (@ideventphoto)