How a local side transformed into a Women's Super League powerhouse
In short: Founded in 1973 as Solihull F.C., this Birmingham-based club has navigated decades of identity shifts and league relegations. From its early days as Villa Aztecs to its first major trophy in 2013, the team's journey reflects the evolving landscape of professional women's football in England.
The club's evolution is marked by several key rebranding phases. Originally established in 1973 as Solihull F.C., the team sought assistance from Aston Villa in 1989, leading to a name change to Villa Aztecs. It was not until 1996 that the side became the officially recognised ladies team of Aston Villa. In 2019, the club underwent another rebranding, becoming Aston Villa Women F.C., a move intended by CEO Christian Purslow to better align with the terminology used in English women's football.
On the pitch, the club has experienced significant fluctuations in tier standings. After being relegated from the FA Women's Premier League in the 1995–96 season, the team spent time in the second-tier Northern Division. They achieved four Northern Division titles (1992–93, 1994–95, 2002–03, and 2010–11) and secured the FA Women's Championship in 2019–20, which earned them promotion to the top flight for the first time since 2004.
The club's greatest sporting achievement occurred on 5 May 2013, when they won their first trophy, the Women's Premier League Cup, following a penalty shootout victory over Leeds United Ladies. Beyond the senior squad, the club operates a Regional Talent Club, developing youth through various age groups including under-10s and under-16s. Recently, the club's ownership has seen shifts, including the sale of a 10% stake to Marc Zahr of Blue Owl Capital on 21 October 2025.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Aston Villa W.F.C.
- Also: Aston Villa W.F.C.
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