RIASA Agreement to Benefit Both Women's Squads

Ilkley Town AFC has formalised its agreement with RIASA Women to further strengthen women’s football at the club and provide players in both set-ups new playing and development opportunities.  

With a base in Headingley, RIASA is a Leeds and London academy that combines top-tier football development with its bespoke US/UK dual accredited degree.

A number of its players have run out for Ilkley over the last few seasons, and this new agreement further cements that relationship, giving Ilkley’s players access to a professional training environment and the opportunity to play in the National Youth League and RIASA’s women the chance to play and experience club level football.

RIASA Lead Women’s Coach Matthew Lars Fossen said:

“It’s been a pleasure to work with Ilkley Town over the last few seasons, and we are really pleased to officially announce this partnership with RIASA Women.

“It presents a fantastic opportunity for both groups of players. For the Ilkley Town girls it creates more opportunities to play football, access additional coaching sessions, receive support such as physiotherapy, and experience a professional training environment. Increasing the amount of quality football they are exposed to each week is so important for their long-term development.

“From a RIASA point of view, it gives our players a clear pathway into open-age football, allowing them to gain valuable experience, continue developing their game, and be supported within both squads. It is also really positive for the RIASA girls to be connected with a local club, support the Ilkley Town environment and contribute to the continued growth of women’s football in the local area.”

Ilkley Town Women’s First Team Manager Rich Walker said:

“We are excited to continue building this relationship and create more opportunities for female players in the local area.

“From Ilkley Town AFC Women’s perspective, renewing this relationship was a key part of what we are wanting to provide for the girls and women involved at the club.

“Now that the partnership has been formalised it allows us to draw on Matthew’s experience and expertise, while also creating further development opportunities for the players involved with both Ilkley Town and RIASA.

“We are committed to building an environment where players can develop, challenge themselves, and access opportunities that support both their footballing and personal growth, and we are excited about what this partnership can bring moving forward.”

Ilkley’s Women have open training throughout May with trials starting in June. Players interested in finding out whether Ilkley is the club for them should complete this short registration form or email womensfootball@ilkleytownafc.com