Guiseley AFC’s highly successful Academy has introduced a new Elite scholarship programme for female footballers, currently in Years 11 and 12, to commence in September 2019. The Academy has joined up with Guiseley School who will deliver a bespoke programme that meets the players’ educational needs.
The scholarship programme will mirror that of the boys’ Academy which has proved to be so successful over the past five years.
The Girls’ Academy will be coached by UEFA licensed coaches on a daily basis and will compete at the highest level in girls’ youth football with opportunities to progress into the Guiseley AFC Vixens set-up, other local clubs and beyond.
The Academy’s new development will run in conjunction with the club’s Community programme and will give female scholars the opportunity to gain coaching qualifications and work experience through their expanding programme.
Head of Youth at Guiseley AFC Dave Currie is looking forward to the project getting underway and he said:”Girls’ football is growing rapidly in the UK and a girls’ Academy is something we have been thinking of doing for a while now.”
Despite the growth in the girls’ game, there aren’t many opportunities beyond secondary school age, so hopefully, this keeps girls playing the game into adulthood.
“The Headteacher at Guiseley School, Paul Clayton, has been excellent in providing a wide curriculum that will allow the girls to achieve in education.”
Guiseley School is very excited about the programme and Headteacher Clayton, said:“This is a fantastic opportunity for the girls to tap into the proven quality of post-16 provision we have here at the school whilst maintaining their ambitions to progress at the highest level in the game.”
Phil Rogerson, Chairman of Guiseley Community Foundation, said: “I think this is a very positive step forward that builds on the success of the boys’ Academy and offers great opportunities for girls to build their footballing skills whilst remaining in full time education.”
“This will allow them to aspire to their dream of a career in football whilst having the backing of high level qualifications and coaching experience should they need a plan B as a fall back.”
Guiseley AFC have had an associated women’s team for many years and the current side, Guiseley Vixens, plays. in the FA Women’s Premier League Northern Division and also has a development squad.
