New ladies team
Blackburn United launch development outfit
Blackburn United Ladies have announced they will enter a development side into the SWFL 2 from the 2019 season.
Blackburn’s existing ladies side is well- established in the SWFL and recently completed their first season in Division One with the development side looking to provide a path for players to step up into the first-team squad.
Players returning to football or those seeking a fresh challenge are encouraged to get in touch with the club, which has a fully-qualified coaching team in place to take the new side forward.
A club statement said: “The club is delighted to confirm that for season 2019 the club will be entering a Ladies Development team into SWFL 2.
“We already have a core set of players for this new squad and we are looking to add further talent.
“Fully qualified coaches are in place and have the full support and backing of all within the Ladies & Girls section and the club.”
First-team head coach Connor McCloskey told the Courier: “The decision to form a new team was to provide more natural progression for our players through our full pathway.
“This gives all players a chance to move to the next level when they are excelling and provides further opportunity for player development, which is a key ethos at Blackburn United.”
The first team consolidated their place in the SWFL One last month, the league wrapping up with United well clear of the relegation zone having won promotion the previous season.
The development side will see the club reaching new heights, McCloskey says.
“It provides a massive opportunity for our new players to try and push the club forward.
“We have long term goals of having both ladies sides at the top level possible. This also provides a better link for our under-17s to play ladies football.”
Blackburn’s goal is to have two squads of about 20 players to provide strength in depth across the two teams.
“This allows us to cover for players who sometimes work on a weekend and inevitable injuries as well,” said McCloskey.
“We have had a lot of interest already which is great. We are hoping to get the ball rolling as soon as possible.
Blackburn United Ladies’ coaching team can be contacted through the Blackburn United Ladies/Girls Facebook page or on Twitter @BlackburnLadies.