Charlton Athletic Women appoint Karen Hills as head coach – as they go full-time from July

Charlton Athletic Women have appointed Karen Hills as their new head coach – with the club going full-time from July.

The 45-year-old played for the Addicks between 2001 and 2007. Hills played a key role in the growth of Tottenham Hotspur’s women’s team, managing the club between 2009 and 2020.

She presided over a series of promotions as the club moved from a completely amateur side to a full-time professional outfit playing in English football’s top flight.

Owner Thomas Sandgaard said: “I am delighted we have been able to appoint someone of Karen’s experience and pedigree.

“She has a great history with our club from her playing days and managed the transition to full-time at Tottenham Hotspur excellently. Our ambition is for Charlton to be challenging in that top tier of the FA Women’s Super League and I am looking forward to watching the team grow.

“Charlton were one of the leading clubs in football in Karen’s playing days and that is where we want to get back to. Going full-time and the appointment of Karen are two real statements of intent as we look to move the team forwards.”

Hills said: “I am looking forward to adding my experience and knowledge to what is already a great staff and a fantastic group of players here are the group. We are looking to build something special with Charlton and I can’t wait to get started.”

The current Charlton Athletic Women’s coaching staff, led by Riteesh Mishra, remains in place. Hills will meet the first team on Tuesday evening ahead of her first training session with the club.