Watford FC Women have been on a meteoric rise over the last few years. This upcoming season they have earned the chance to play in the WSL2 following promotion after a very successful season, where they will face teams such as Leicester City and Newcastle United.
The nickname ‘The Golden Girls’ suits them well, as they were in sparkling form throughout the 2025-26 season. They won seventeen out of twenty-two matches in the division and had an eye for goal which was evident throughout, recording 80 goals across the campaign. This was partly due to the prolific nature of star striker Madison Perry, who finished as the league’s leading scorer with 25 goals. She will definitely be one to watch as Watford embark on a new journey.
Watford are no strangers to signing talent. Their current roster includes a mix of experienced former Women’s Super League players such as former Spurs and Crystal Palace midfielder Coral-Jade Haines, who has experience with the Lionesses youth setup and was Watford’s Player of The Season in the 2025-26 season, to young talent such as midfielder Ava Kuyken.
Kuyken, another star in the making who will be a key part of the squad this year, is a graduate of Hale End, having spent time in Arsenal’s academy. She made ten appearances for Arsenal Women’s senior side before joining American college football club Florida Gators, gaining further valuable experience. Whilst with Arsenal, Kuyken also played with big names such as Lauren James and Chloe Kelly.
It’s not the first time this link has paid dividends. Watford have also had other current star talent in their ranks over the years, with Laila Harbert and Michelle Agyemang being two examples of players who enjoyed successful loan spells there.
Having a wide variety of players who are at different ages and experience levels provides Watford with a strong squad that should have a good chance of being successful in the upcoming WSL2 campaign. Even though the challenge still persists, the Golden Girls will look to rise to it in what should be an exhilarating season.
Head coach Renee Hector has been influential in the squad’s promotion and has been at the helm since 2024. Hector, who led the England under-17s squad to victory in the MIMA Cup, is used to rising up the ranks. As a player she won promotion to the Women’s Super League with Spurs in 2019.
Overall, the future looks bright for the WSL2 newcomers, who play their home matches in Kings Langley at the Orbital Fasteners Stadium. Despite the challenge of facing off against seasoned league veterans, there is a sense of optimism that the team can adapt to the new league and make a big impact.
