Development Team Managers strengthen women’s coaching set-up

Ilkley Town is delighted to announce its new Women’s Development managers to strengthen the coaching team line-up for the 2026/7 season.

Development Team Manager Gearoid Lockwood joins from Dewsbury Moor Ladies FC where he is First Team Manager, with previous coaching and management roles including positions at Brodsworth Welfare Ladies FC, Leeds Modernians and Edenthorpe JFC as well as Community Coach at Manchester City.

He is joined by Assistant Manager Jess Holland who brings extensive playing experience from clubs including Huddersfield Town, Leeds United and Morley FC as well as representative honours for England at a 7-a-side World Cup tournament. She will be a huge asset to the club.  

Gearoid said:

“I’m delighted to join Ilkley Town. After meeting with the Chair and First Team Manager and seeing the fantastic facilities, it was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down. There’s an exciting project ahead and I can’t wait to get started and help Rich and the players build something special.”

Ilkley Town Chairman Richard Giles said:

“Gearoid and Jess impressed me with their attitude and ambitions which are in line with our own. I’m delighted to welcome them to the club and have a strong management and coaching team in place for our women’s section ahead of pre-season.”

Women’s Manager Rich Walker said:

“It’s great to have someone with Gaz’s knowledge and experience joining the club and I’m looking forward to working closely together. We’ve spoken at length and we share the same views and focus on player development and what we want to build moving forwards.

“I’m particularly pleased to welcome Jess as having someone with her energy and experience will provide valuable insight and inspiration for our players.”

Women’s open training is happening on Thursdays through May with Trials starting from June. For players interested in finding out if Ilkley’s the club for them, register attendance here or email womensfootball@ilkleytownafc.com