Partnership with Pro Elite to improve player pathway
Ilkley Town Women and Pro Elite Girls are delighted to announce an exciting new partnership that will create a clear and ambitious pathway for female footballers across the region.
The partnership brings together two organisations committed to developing players both on and off the pitch, providing opportunities for young female footballers to progress through every stage of the game.
Through this collaboration, players within the Pro Elite Female Football Scholarship Programme at Guiseley High School will have a structured route into senior women's football with Ilkley Town Women. With both Development and First Team environments available, players will have the opportunity to continue their development, gain valuable senior experience, and compete at the highest level possible.
The partnership also creates exciting opportunities for players currently within Ilkley Town's U15 and U16 age groups; Those looking to combine their academic studies with elite football development will have access to the Pro Elite Female Football Scholarship Programme, allowing them to continue their education while training and competing in a full-time football environment.
Ilkley Town Women First Team Manager Rich Walker said:
“One of the key objectives for us has always been to create genuine opportunities for players to progress. This partnership strengthens that pathway and provides talented young players with another route into senior football.
“We're excited to work with Luke and the team at Pro Elite Girls and look forward to seeing players from both organisations benefit from the opportunities this partnership will create."
Pro Elite Girls Director Luke Dean added:
“We're delighted to be partnering with Ilkley Town Women and creating a clear progression route for our players into senior football. The ambition, structure and environment at Ilkley make them an ideal partner for our programme.
“This partnership not only benefits our scholarship players but also creates opportunities for talented young players within the Ilkley pathway to continue both their academic and football development through our scholarship programme.
“We are excited about what the future holds and look forward to building a strong relationship that benefits female footballers across the region."
Together, both organisations are committed to creating a long-term pathway that supports players in achieving their ambitions within the women's game.