The 27-year-old joined Albion in 2011, several years before it became the professional set-up it is now. She explained how much the team was valued when she first arrived despite not having anywhere near as many resources available compared to the present day.
She said, “Before I joined, I remember having a conversation with the then manager DJ [Hamilton] and he invited me to have a trial. It was on the AstroTurf pitch down the road from the Amex and there was a load of us there. I was so nervous coming into a new team, especially after I had just returned from a long-term injury.
“When we turned up to training it was just a cabin, a toilet and a changing room. There wasn’t anything else until we moved to the training ground a few years later. But even back the club still did everything possible to ensure we were catered for. For instance, the kit man would prepare our kit and we’d be well looked after in that sense.”
“We’ve always been looked after at Brighton and I’ve felt that way ever since I arrived from Chelsea. I felt this was a real family club from the very beginning.”
Barton went on to feature in one of the stand-out moments in the women’s team’s history in 2016 when they overcame Sporting Club Albion 4-2 to secure a place in FAWSL2. She said, “That game will always stick with me. It was a massive achievement to win the play-off final, the realisation of how far the team had progressed and how much we had developed. To finally get a chance to play in what was the second tier was massive. It’s a memory I’ll always hold onto.”
The Seagulls stalwart turned her attention back to the present day and spoke about the inspirational role of manager Hope Powell. “When she came to the club, we couldn’t believe it because she had so much experience having managed at an international level with England for so many years,” said Barton.
“Young kids idolise her and they always want pictures and even some of the adult fans are having photos with her! She had a great playing career as well, and it’s great to have someone of her experience at the club.
“She will support you in all aspects of your job as a player - your mental well-being and your studies too. Even though this is our full-time job, she will make sure that we focus on our education. She is incredibly supportive.”
Albion are next in action on Sunday 15th March against Birmingham City at The People’s Pension Stadium, kick-off 2pm. To buy tickets at a discounted rate click here.