AFC Wimbledon is pleased to announce the entry of six teams into the JPL Warriors League for the 2024/25 season, signaling a significant advancement in its support for girls’ football. This decision follows the recent success of AFC Wimbledon Women, who secured the FAWNL South East Division title. The club’s initiative holds great promise for young female footballers in the Under-11s to Under-16s age groups, offering them the opportunity to pursue their passion and establish themselves as accomplished athletes on the field.
At the core of the AFC Wimbledon Girls initiative is the commitment to providing a nurturing environment for young players to develop their footballing abilities and to pave the way for future first-team opportunities. Moreover, the club places great emphasis on the welfare and safeguarding of its players, integrating the girls’ football program as an essential component of AFC Wimbledon’s ethos, rather than as a separate entity.
Earlier this year, AFC Wimbledon unveiled its vision of creating a structured pathway for young female players to progress to the women’s first-team, ensuring that aspiring footballers from Wimbledon and its surrounding areas have affordable and accessible opportunities. The community response has been exceptionally positive, with over 300 girls participating in open trials and 130 advancing to a final trial at the club’s stadium. Ultimately, 90 girls have secured spots in the 2024/25 pathway, with summer training programs for the six squads scheduled to commence on 26th June.
Looking ahead, the club aims to bridge the gap between the Under-16s group and the first-team by establishing a development squad, offering an exciting prospect for young talents aspiring to compete at the highest level for AFC Wimbledon.
To support this ambitious initiative, the club is actively seeking volunteer coaches to play a pivotal role in creating an environment where young female footballers can thrive. The emphasis will be on nurturing exceptional talent within a framework that instils core values such as respect, ambition, and integrity. Lead Coach positions require a UEFA C qualification, while applications for Assistant Coaches (UEFA C qualification desirable) and Phase Support Coaches (Intro to Coaching Football as a minimum) are also welcomed.
For those interested in contributing to this inspiring venture, further details can be found in the previous article released by the club. Alternatively, enquiries can be directed to James Welch at [email protected], paving the way for a bright future for young female footballers at AFC Wimbledon.