Pools Women's Team have moved to bolster their squad during the summer with the signing of five new players – and boss Jonathan Gibbon-Hayes is still looking for more.
Our successful Women's Team finished runners-up to runaway champions Durham Cestria in the North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division last term.
However, they're looking to go one better during 2019/20 and claim the title for themselves - and with it a coveted place in the FA Women's National League.
Their chances of silverware have been enhanced by a summer recruitment drive which has seen talented left-back Faye Garside tempted back to the Club after a season with Norton & Stockton Ancients.
Also joining from Norton is goalkeeper Rebecca Lillystone who will challenge for the Number One spot, while youngster Mary Henry has been signed from Wallsend after impressing during a trial.
Gibbon-Hayes has also swooped for the services of highly-rated attacking midfielder Becky Hanratty and the former Durham star will be hoping to reignite her career with Pools following injury.
The fifth new recruit of the summer is versatile star Jessica McKenna who is making a comeback after a spell out of the game to have a baby.
“I am still working on a couple of signings but we'll see what happens before the season,” revealed Gibbon-Hayes, whose side kick-off their pre-season programme at Leeds United on Sunday.
“I'm delighted with the players we've brought in so far – it's great to have Faye back from Norton, I've seen her play quite a few times and she's got real quality so will be an asset to us.
“Bex Lillestone adds some extra competition in the goalkeeping department and I think Becky Hanratty is a potential world-beater who could be pivotal for us if we can get her firing.
“Mary did well during a trial so we're really pleased to bring her in from Wallsend and I am certain we can develop her in to a strong First Team player.
“Jessica will also be a good addition for us when she's up to speed – but made her first mistake in an early training session when she got in the way of a Justine Robinson shot and broke her thumb!
“All in all, I am really happy with how we've been able to improve the squad and hopefully that extra competition for places can drive us on during the season.”
Pools Women's Team are currently seeking a sponsor for their kit for the 2019/20 season – if you are interested or would like more details then please contact Dawn Stuart on dawn@hartlepoolunitedwfc.co.uk