STORM Ciara presented Swindon Town Women with an ideal opportunity to reflect on the current season and identify what has improved at the club since Jamie Lloyd-Davies’ appointment.

Volunteers gathered with coaches and members of the club’s committee to assess the opportunities that can ensure the club develops in the second half of the FA Women’s National League.

Lloyd-Davies was installed as the first-team’s new manager in the summer of last year, with James Lalley leading the development team.

Since both appointments, the club has expanded its coaching team to 10 people - working together to develop the team.

Training sessions are now recorded for video analysis purposes while strength and conditioning work in the gym has also been introduced.

Town assistant manager Polly New insists that while results on the pitch haven’t quite been what the club deserves, performances on the pitch are improving.

She added: “Things don’t just happen overnight, or in a season.

“With a new management team and football philosophy, and improved standards and expectations of players, things are looking very promising for the club – exciting times are just around the corner, I am sure of it.”

The work of long-term supporter Mike Dixon was also noted by the club.

Dixon, who this season adopted a new senior role with the club, has developed the relationships between the club, Swindon Town FC and the Community Foundation in addition to sponsors Coate Water Care, Therapy Plus, Barnes Coaches and the Swindon Town Supporter’s Club.

Chairman Martin Wheeler recognised Dixon’s involvement and said: “Mike has done an incredible job in attracting new sponsors to the club this season which has given us the opportunity to see improvement in the club’s structure financially and in the coaching set up.

“It is therefore with great pleasure that I can announce that Mike Dixon has been appointed vice-chairman of Swindon Town Women FC.”

Sunday’s game against Southampton Women will be at Foundation Park behind the County Ground.

Entry is £3 for adults, or £1 for concessions. Accompanied U16s enter for free, as do Swindon Town season ticket holders and Supporter’s Club members.