The popularity of England’s Women’s Super League (WSL) continues to surge, as evidenced by the significant uptick in spectators this season. Notably, Arsenal, sharing the iconic Emirates Stadium with its men’s counterpart, has reported a remarkable rise in attendance figures. Nevertheless, it’s intriguing to explore why the atmosphere inside the stadium remains vibrant even amidst smaller crowds. In the illustrious “home of football,” we investigate the stadium dynamics that contribute to the electric environment cherished by fans.
(Text and photography by Kei Matsubara[REAL SPORTS Editorial Department])
Arsenal Women’s average attendance this season exceeds 35,000
In the vibrant landscape of overseas women’s soccer markets, England’s WSL has captured increasing attention with a notable growth in its spectator numbers. The average attendance for the league surged to 7,478 last season, marking an impressive 43 percent increase compared to the previous year, positioning it just behind the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) where the average was recorded at 10,432.
Arsenal leads the league in attendance metrics, averaging an outstanding 29,999 fans last season. Although Meadow Park, its former home with a capacity of just 4,500, witnessed an average of 3,600 attendees, the six matches hosted at Emirates Stadium drew a staggering average of 52,029 fans. This season, with Emirates Stadium now designated as the primary venue for the women’s team, attendance figures have continued to climb, currently averaging 37,719— a number that even ranks impressively among the Men’s Premier League at 11th.
According to Forbes, Arsenal Women’s head coach Jonas Eydeball highlighted, “What makes Arsenal special is the community belonging and the connection with the fans.” This profound community spirit, bonded by a shared passion for football and deep respect for the club’s storied legacy spanning 138 years, forms a powerful pillar for investment from major clubs in women’s soccer, which is key to the transformations being witnessed today.
A stadium where the enthusiasm of the supporters spreads
The author attended WSL Round 5 on October 3, 2023. The match took place at Falmer Stadium, home of Brighton, where a capacity crowd of 8,369 celebrated a thrilling contest against Manchester United, witnessing a new attendance record for the venue.
In an inspiring trend, over 40% of the supporters filling the stands were women, as the excitement bubbled just in sync with the vibrant fireworks display. As Seike eloquently expressed, “Brighton doesn’t have a large group of supporters, but each individual is passionate and the stadium naturally comes together as one.” This unity translated into palpable energy in the stands, with fans emotionally reacting to the on-pitch action.
The match between Manchester City and Aston Villa at Joy Stadium attracted 3,528 passionate supporters who filled the main and back stands to capacity, showcasing their unwavering enthusiasm. Joy Stadium offers an optimal viewing experience for women’s soccer, with the proximity of the stands to the pitch heightening the thrill— spectators can almost hear the players’ breaths, amplifying the immersive experience of top-tier women’s soccer.
Stadium gourmet food and MDP are also available.
The stadiums surveyed share a commendable location just a short walk from public transport, facilitating easy access for fans. Ticket prices are standardized at approximately 12 pounds (around 2,500 yen), with reductions available for children, students, and seniors, reflecting a moderately similar pricing point as Japan’s WE League.
Food options at both venues are diverse, showcasing around 7 to 10 types of gourmet offerings. At Amex Stadium, patrons can indulge in classic fish and chips for 14 pounds (about 2,800 yen), while Joy Stadium offers an array of choices including seafood sandwiches and pizza, with prices around 5 pounds (approximately 1,000 yen).
Moreover, the Match Day Program (MDP), costing around 4 pounds (about 800 yen), stands as an impressive feature, boasting nearly 30 pages filled with player interviews, match analysis, and vibrant photography— a testament to the dedication to fan engagement.
What is the unique charm of WE League?
The financial disparity among WSL clubs is evident, especially with the league’s recent independence from the FA. This autonomy will empower clubs to collectively announce strategic plans aimed at fostering the league’s overall success, promising hope for clubs currently in need of financial bolstering.
While the WE League aspires to be the world’s premier league, it grapples with challenges in drawing in spectators. Acknowledging unique cultural dynamics along with a slow investment progression in Japan highlights the complexities of fostering such environments. Insight can be drawn from examining the operational models of thriving leagues like NWSL and WSL, with potential pathways for growth lying in structured communication and showcasing the WE League’s distinctive appeal.
**Interview with Kei Matsubara: Exploring the Phenomenon of Women’s Super League Attendance**
**Editor**: Welcome, Kei Matsubara! You’ve just returned from attending a Women’s Super League match. The attendance figures this season are astonishing, especially for Arsenal. What’s your take on what’s driving this surge?
**Kei Matsubara**: Thank you for having me! Arsenal’s average attendance exceeding 35,000 this season is a testament to the growing popularity of women’s football in England. The community spirit, the legacy of the club, and the overall connection they have with fans really seem to resonate deeply. It’s more than just a game; it’s an event that brings people together.
**Editor**: It’s fascinating to note how even smaller crowds can create such an electric atmosphere. What did you observe at the matches you attended that reinforced this idea?
**Kei Matsubara**: Absolutely! In venues like Joy Stadium, it’s all about proximity. Fans are close enough to the pitch to hear the players communicating, which really enhances the experience. Even with around 3,500 fans, the energy is palpable. As one attendee mentioned, each fan’s passion contributes to a unified experience—it’s almost like being part of something magical.
**Editor**: You mentioned that many of these stadiums have smaller capacities. How does that affect the dynamic compared to larger venues?
**Kei Matsubara**: The intimacy of these stadiums creates a unique charm. Because they hold less than 10,000, every chant and cheer feels magnified. It’s reminiscent of a concert where every bit of emotion shared feels crucial. The smaller crowd doesn’t diminish the atmosphere; it enhances it. You feel like you know the players and share the highs and lows with everyone around you.
**Editor**: That’s an interesting perspective! You’ve also made a comparison to the WE League in Japan. What do you think England’s WSL could learn from its Japanese counterpart?
**Kei Matsubara**: The WE League has been steadily growing, but it still lacks the integrated fan experiences that the WSL currently offers. The use of community engagement and building genuine connections with fans—like Arsenal does—could serve as a model for others. It’s not just about ticket sales; it’s about fostering a robust culture around women’s soccer.
**Editor**: As a regular attendee and observer of the games, what would you say to someone who hasn’t yet experienced a Women’s Super League match?
**Kei Matsubara**: I would say dive in! The energy, the camaraderie, and the sheer talent on display are genuinely captivating. Whether you’re in the stands or sharing a pie with friends, you’ll find yourself caught up in the thrill of the game. Plus, knowing you’re supporting a movement that’s contributing to the future of women’s sports makes it all the more special.
**Editor**: Thanks, Kei! Your insights into the Women’s Super League certainly showcase the vibrant atmosphere behind the stats. It seems women’s football is truly on the rise!
**Kei Matsubara**: Exactly! It’s an exciting time for the sport, and fans—new and old—should absolutely be a part of it. Who knows? You might end up liking it more than you expect!
Welcome to the Match of the Season!
Hello, football fanatics and casual observers! Grab a pie, settle into that suspiciously uncomfortably plastic chair, and let’s dissect the sheer brilliance that is the Women’s Super League (WSL) in England! Yes, it’s football, but with a sprinkle of estrogen and a dash of grit that makes it marvellously chaotic!
Attendance: Arsenal Sets the Bar High!
Hold onto your hats! Arsenal Women’s team is averaging over an eye-watering 35,000 spectators! Now, if you’re like me and think that sounds like enough people to audition for a reality show, you’re not wrong. Arsenal’s impressive stats have surpassed not only the WSL’s last season average of 7,478 (no kidding!), but have also outshone the average for men’s teams like Everton—who might as well be playing to a room full of their mommies!
Why So Attractive, These Small Crowds?
But wait—what’s this? A small crowd brings a boo… I mean, a big atmosphere? It’s like saying a plague of flies could enhance your picnic experience! The truth? Many of the WSL stadiums are cozy little venues, holding less than 10,000, making even a handful of passionate fans sound like a rock concert. As one former player noted, “Even if there aren’t many people in the stadium, it feels like there are a lot.” A true Harry Potter moment—where the magic is, my dear friends, in the intimacy!
The Riotous Cheer—or Is It a Giggle?
Ladies and gentlemen, talking about stadium atmospheres, have you ever been so close to the pitch you could hear the players gargling their pre-match energy drinks? The Joy Stadium’s setup is almost comically intimate. On good days, it must transport fans into a reality where every goal feels like a personal affair! “Boo! Hooray! Oh wait, did you see that pass?”—it’s a rollercoaster of emotions that should come with a safety warning!
Back to the Nuts and Bolts
Alright, let’s get serious for just a moment. The ticket prices may set you back about £12 (ready your wallets, it’s pricey, but come on, it’s football!) and the food options are seemingly from a gourmet chef’s workshop (fish and chips, anyone?). Contrast this with Japan’s WE League, where you can grab a comparable spot with for a mere 1,000 yen! What are they hiding over there? Or are they just smarter with their finances?
The WE League: Taking Notes!
The gleaming takeaway? While the WSL is raking in numbers and dedication faster than you can say “offside,” the WE League still feels like that toddler trying to walk at a family reunion. There’s a lot to learn from the WSL—integrated fan experiences, genuine player connections, and, let’s face it, a liquidity situation that doesn’t resemble a dried-up well!
In Closing
So, whether you’re at the Emirates feeling like royalty in the cheap seats or grumbling under the bleachers of another lesser-attended assault on our senses, the conclusion is: Women’s football is a rising titan! And while the path to success may be littered with challenges, like finding a clean pair of socks and a parking spot next to the stadium, we’re here for it all. So, stick around and let’s see how this beautiful game continues to unfold!
Now, let’s gather our scarves, slap on some paint, and sing that cheeky chant louder than ever—because football, especially women’s football, is bloody brilliant!