Stourbridge FC Women – Rebuilding, Resilient and Rising Again

Photography by Rowe_snaps

After a difficult 2024/25 season which saw Stourbridge Women finish 12th in the Northern Premier Division and relegated into the Division One Midlands, they are now looking to turn things around. However, their 2025/26 campaign got off to a similarly difficult start with the side losing their opening 4 games, yet The Glassgirls now appear to be gaining some momentum and will be looking to propel themselves up the table.

Currently sitting eleventh with 11 points, Stourbridge sit just four points off eight placed Sutton Colfield Town, with a crucial game in hand. Alongside that, Stourbridge’s away form has been particularly impressive picking up all 3 of their league victories so far this season on the road.

Their first FAWNL game of the new calendar year could not have got off to a better start in a goals galore meeting with Notts County as the Glassgirls overcame their opposition in a remarkable 5-3 victory, significantly sending a message to those around them they are a force to be reckoned with.

Stourbridge have also enjoyed success in cup competitions; reaching the Second Round Proper of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup was another reminder of the club’s ability to rise to the occasion.

On the pitch, several players have stood out including centre-back Olivia Owen who has picked up four Opposition Player of the Match awards across her 18 appearances. Signed at the start of the season, Owen has proven to be an excellent addition to the Glassgirls’ backline, bringing valuable experience from spells with fellow National League sides Sutton Coldfield Town, Sporting Khalsa and West Bromwich Albion. The centre-back has become a cornerstone of the Glassgirls’ defence, consistently delivering committed and reliable performances whenever called upon.

In attack, Darcy Cartwright leads the line having grabbed five goals in 12 appearances. After previously spending five years at Wolves Women, before spells at Leafield Athletic, Cartwright joined Stourbridge in November 2024 and has quickly made her mark with her never-ending work rate and impressive finishing.

Whilst this season won’t see Stourbridge Women regain their place in Tier 3, it has been a key reason to restore a sense of stability and build important foundations for the future. Having previously achieved three consecutive promotions to reach the third tier, teams should never underestimate the Glassgirls' fighting spirit and ability to grow as they hope to keep their place in the Division One Midlands and build for the future.