Emma Byrne has been appointed the new manager of Lewes FC Women and also their head of goalkeeping.
The former Ireland centurion and Arsenal goalkeeper of over 450 appearances, Byrne takes over from Nat Lawrence, who has become head coach of Wales U-17s.
Byrne told lewesfc.com: “I am delighted to join Lewes FC – a special club that is ambitious and relentless in raising standards at the club and for women’s football everywhere, with an amazing community spirit.
“I am looking forward to working with a talented group of players and staff, and want to thank Nat for all her hard work last season to build the foundation for us to continue to grow from.”
Lynne Burrell, Lewes FC head of women’s football commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Emma into the Lewes FC family. She is a winner, a leader, and someone who deeply understands what it takes to succeed at both domestic and international levels.
“Her passion for developing players and pushing professional standards is exactly what we need at this stage in our journey.”
Kelly Lindsey, Lewes FC COO and sporting director, added: “This is more than a managerial appointment – it’s a statement of intent. We want to be back in the Championship – the new WSL2 – and we know what it takes: the right ecosystem, strategic alignment, collaboration, and the time commitment to earn our way back through hard work, unity and grit.”