AFC Rushden & Diamonds are proud to announce the launch of a new Women’s & Girls’ Pathway, marking a historic and progressive step forward for the Football Club.
For the first time in our history, the Club will establish a structured Women’s and Girls’ performance pathway, creating a clear and progressive development route within the AFC Rushden & Diamonds family. The pathway will initially focus on Under-16s, Under-18s and Senior football, with a clear vision to expand in the coming years to mirror the structure and success of our Boys’ Academy system.
The pathway will work in conjunction with our existing Girls’ Community Section, providing a defined next step for aspiring and elite female footballers in and around Northamptonshire, ensuring a joined-up approach to female player development across the Club.
The programme will be based at Wollaston School, making use of their new state-of-the-art facilities and providing a strong and supportive environment for players to develop both on and off the pitch.
Leading the new pathway as Head of Academy will be Kevin Bull, who has for many years led and developed our Girls’ Community Section. Kevin brings with him a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of youth football development, and strong local connections that will be invaluable as we establish and grow this exciting new chapter.
The Club has also secured a grant from Sport England to support the launch of the pathway, underlining the strength of the project and the confidence in its long-term potential.
Club Chairman Rob Usher said:
“This is a hugely significant moment for AFC Rushden & Diamonds. The launch of a Women’s and Girls’ Pathway has long been an ambition for the Club, and we are incredibly proud to see it become a reality.
Providing a clear pathway from youth football through to senior level is essential to growing the game locally, and we are committed to building a structure that mirrors the success of our Boys’ Academy.
We are grateful for the support of Sport England and delighted that Kevin Bull will be leading this project. His experience and passion for developing the women’s and girls’ game will be vital as we take this important step forward.”
As well as providing a platform for talented local players, the launch of a Women’s and Girls’ Pathway will create both coaching and sponsorship opportunities. Further details regarding trials, coaching appointments and league participation will be announced in due course.
This is a landmark development for AFC Rushden & Diamonds and a powerful statement of our commitment to opportunity, inclusion and the continued growth of the game within our community.
