On International Women's Day, Newport County A.F.C. is proud to recognise and celebrate the incredible women who play such an important role across the club.
From matchday volunteers and retail staff to office teams and photographers working pitchside, their dedication, passion and commitment help make the club what it is today.
Here, we shine a light on some of the women who contribute so much to the Exiles on and off the pitch.
Nicola Johns | Club Photographer
A familiar face around the touchline in her pink bib and with a camera lens over her shoulder, Nicola Johns has become a key part of the club’s matchday team.
Nicola photographed her first competitive County game in August 2017, a 1-1 draw against Crewe Alexandra, and has since attended more than 600 fixtures both home and away. Her work captures some of the club’s most memorable moments, providing galleries for supporters to relive games and ensuring those unable to attend can still experience the action from pitchside.
Reflecting on her journey with the club, Nicola said: “Being part of the County behind the scenes team has been an amazing journey.
“I’ve been blessed to work with some amazing people here but the one thing that has always stood out at Newport is the amount of superbly talented ladies we have working within the club from media, office, retail, directors to backroom staff.
“We really do lead the way in ensuring everyone has the same opportunities, development and support. Here’s to us hoping we can continue to smash any remaining glass ceilings in football.”
Donna | Office and Matchday Operations
Donna’s connection with the club stretches back decades, first attending matches with her dad at Somerton Park before continuing to support the Exiles throughout the club’s rebirth.
She began volunteering in 1998 on the turnstiles and quickly became a familiar face on matchdays. Over the years she has experienced countless memorable moments as a supporter, including promotions, cup runs and the famous survival on the final day during the 2016–17 season.
Donna joined the club’s retail team in 2016 before moving into the office in 2019. Today she plays a vital role organising mascots, matchday flag bearers and group visits, helping create unforgettable first experiences for young supporters.
From walking Spytty the Dog with mascots to presenting children with their first-game certificates, Donna’s work ensures many families make lasting memories at County.
Debra | Hospitality Co-ordinator
Debra has been part of the Newport County family for more than two decades. After serving as a steward at Rodney Parade for 21 years, she moved into her current role managing hospitality four years ago.
Known for her warm welcome and friendly personality, Debra ensures supporters and guests enjoy their matchday experience in the club’s hospitality areas.
Many fans may also recognise Debra from the unforgettable scenes at Notts County F.C., when the Amber Army poured onto the pitch at the final whistle.
In the famous footage of supporters celebrating, Debra can be seen clearly in shot as the steward on duty, standing with her arms in the air as fans streamed onto the pitch around her. It became a memorable moment from an unforgettable day for the club, perfectly capturing the emotion and joy of the supporters.
Looking back on it now, Debra simply laughs and sums it up in her own words: “What could you do!”
Poppy and Taylor | Matchday Ticket Office
Poppy and Taylor are both long-serving members of the Newport County team who play an important role in the matchday ticket office.
Poppy previously served as the club’s ticket office manager and spent more than a decade helping supporters secure tickets for some of the most memorable matches in recent County history. While she no longer holds the full-time role, she continues to support the club on matchdays as part of the ticket office sales team, reflecting her continued passion for the Exiles.
Taylor is also widely recognised as one of the longest-serving staff members at the club, having dedicated more than ten years to Newport County. Her experience and knowledge make her a vital part of the matchday operation, helping ensure supporters receive a warm welcome and a smooth experience when arriving at Rodney Parade.
Together, their commitment and love for the club ensure the ticket office remains a key part of the matchday experience for County supporters.
Alison Bourke, Helen Larcombe, Jane Butler, Rebecca Hall, Sarah Addison, Jane Brussalis and Susan Herin | Retail Team
The club shop is another vital part of the matchday experience and is supported by a dedicated group of women who help keep it running smoothly.
Alison Bourke, Helen Larcombe, Jane Butler, Rebecca Hall, Sarah Addison, Jane Brussalis and Susan Herin work tirelessly to ensure supporters can proudly wear the club’s colours, whether they are purchasing their first County shirt or adding to a long-standing collection.
Their friendly service and passion for the club help create the welcoming atmosphere supporters enjoy when visiting the store.
Mandy Young, Lindsay Brown and Nikki Prakel | 50/50 Draw
Matchdays would not be complete without the 50/50 draw, and Mandy Young, Lindsay Brown and Nikki Prakel play a key role in making it happen.
Their efforts help raise funds while giving supporters the chance to win on matchday, adding another layer of excitement around the stadium while supporting the club.
From the office to the touchline, hospitality suites to the club shop, the women of Newport County continue to play an invaluable role in the club’s story.
On International Women’s Day, the club thanks them and all the women who work, volunteer and support the Exiles for everything they do.
