Wikipedia - WE League

The WE League (WEリーグ), officially the Japan Women's Empowerment Professional Football League (Japanese: 日本女子プロサッカーリーグ, Hepburn: Nihon Joshi Puro Sakkā Rīgu; "Japan Women Pro Football League"), also known as the SOMPO WE League (Japanese: SOMPO WEリーグ) for sponsorship reasons, is the top flight of women's association football in Japan, starting from the 2021–22 season. It is the first fully-professional women's football league in Japan.

The current (2024–25) title holders are Tokyo Verdy Beleza.

History

On 3 June 2020, the Japan Football Association (JFA) announced the formation of the WE League to become Japan's new top-flight, professional women's football league. The semi-professional Nadeshiko League would become the second level on the women's football pyramid in Japan once the WE League began play in the autumn of 2021. United States–based business executive and former Japan international footballer Kikuko Okajima was announced as the WE League's inaugural chairwoman.

17 clubs applied to join the WE League. On 15 October 2020, 11 clubs were announced as founding members of the WE League, including seven with J. League affiliations.

  • From Nadeshiko League First Division: Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies, INAC Kobe Leonessa, Tokyo Verdy Beleza, Albirex Niigata Ladies, JEF United Ichihara Chiba Ladies, Mynavi Vegalta Sendai (disaffiliated from male club Vegalta Sendai before the opening season), Nojima Stella Kanagawa Sagamihara
  • From Nadeshiko League Second Division: Chifure AS Elfen Saitama, AC Nagano Parceiro Ladies, FC Jumonji Ventus (affiliated to male club Omiya Ardija)
  • Ex-novo franchise: Sanfrecce Hiroshima Regina.

In the 2023–24 season, Cerezo Osaka Sakai Ladies entered the WE League, promoted from Nadeshiko League Division 1.

**Japan Women Empowerment League**

The Japan Women Empowerment League (JWEL) is a groundbreaking soccer tournament dedicated to promoting gender equality, empowering women, and showcasing the incredible talent of female athletes across Japan. This annual event brings together teams from various regions, uniting players, coaches, and fans in a celebration of women's sports and the spirit of competition.

JWEL aims to create a platform where young female athletes can shine, develop their skills, and inspire the next generation. The tournament features a series of matches that highlight not only the athletic prowess of the participants but also the importance of teamwork, leadership, and resilience. Each game is an opportunity to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support for women in sports.

In addition to the thrilling matches, the league hosts workshops, mentorship programs, and community outreach initiatives designed to empower women both on and off the field. By partnering with local organizations and advocates for gender equality, JWEL strives to create lasting change and inspire young girls to pursue their dreams, whether in sports or other fields.

Join us in celebrating the strength, skill, and determination of women athletes at the Japan Women Empowerment League, where every goal scored is a step towards a more equitable future!