Ilkley Town AFC women are preparing for their first ever FA Cup adventure as they welcome tier 5 Chesterfield ladies to the MPM stadium on Sunday 22 September in the second qualifying round.
This opportunity comes after a successful 23/24 season where Ilkley secured promotion to the West Riding County Women’s Football League (WRCWFL) Premier Division (tier 7) after winning the Division One title.
In addition the 23/24 season also saw the inception of a brand new development team to improve both the infrastructure and opportunity for female footballers within the club and local area, providing a progressive pathway into senior football. The development team competed in WRCWFL Division Four last season and consolidated their position with a very respectable mid table finish.
With the 24/25 season now underway the club is showing no signs of slowing down as over 40 women are already signed on with more and more players are showing an interest in getting involved.
Ilkley Town AFC women’s manager Claire Armstrong had this to say: “We’re moving in the right direction and constantly looking at ways to improve the experience for female footballers. The club is committed to supporting this process and has ensured we can provide high quality facilities, coaching, onsite physio support and a really attractive player package inclusive of a club tracksuit & training kit."
Chesterfield ladies have enjoyed a strong start to the new season with a 100% record and will provide a huge challenge for Armstrong’s side, Claire added: “Chesterfield look like a wonderful side with a lot of quality, a great & progressive infrastructure and are incredibly professional in what they do. Their aim is clearly to gain promotion to the National League (tier 4) and their Summer recruitment reflects that. In some ways what they are doing is aspirational but what an opportunity for our players, irrespective of result to play against a high quality side and learn so much.”
Kick off is 2pm on Sunday at the MPM stadium at Ben Rhydding Sports Club on Leeds Road and entry is free.
If you’re 16 years old or over and have an interest in getting involved then please contact Claire on 07854575449 for further details.