This season has been the most successful one ever for women’s football at Ilkley Town.

Following the decision to enter a development team into the West Riding County Womens League, the club have been able to cater for more girls and ladies playing competitive football than ever before, and now have over 40 women playing senior football at the club.

The development team, managed by Steve Orchard and Stefan Macina, have had a fantastic first season finishing mid table in a very competitive league. In addition, they have handed senior debuts to a number of young players taking their first steps into senior football.

The first team have finished 4th in Division One for the last two consecutive seasons and in the 2023/24 season were very hungry to demonstrate their continued improvement and talent.

Ilkley’s ambition has been fulfilled by finishing as league champions with promotion secured to the West Riding County Premier Division (Tier 7) next season. This is the highest tier of football any women’s team at the club has reached and excitingly now, Ilkley are eligible to enter the Women’s FA Cup.

Claire Armstrong, Women’s First Team Manager, commented: “Our First Team has some very young players and I’m incredibly proud of how they have managed some difficult and challenging games this season.

“They have grown in maturity and combined with their high talent level and potential our ambition to keep progressing is exciting and realistic.

“Ilkley Town is a very attractive club to play your football because our section is well supported by the club.

“The younger girls age groups are exploding with numbers, creating a long-term sustainable pathway for continued success and growth of the women’s section.

“We are always keen to add players to both our squads and are looking forward to delivering open training sessions.”

Ilkley will be hosting those sessions on Thursday 18 July and the following week on Thursday 25 July with both sessions being held from 7:30 – 9:00 pm at the MPM Stadium 3G pitch (LS29 8AW).

Any player that wishes to get in touch to discuss what the club has to offer is very welcome to contact Claire on 07584575449.