Chichester area gets second women's football team

Chichester City FC have formed Chichester City Women who have announced the appointment of Connor Slade as manager.

A City statement said: "It is still early days in the process but it is hoped that the team will enter the pyramid at a minimum of step six.

"They will play fixtures at Oaklands Park and be overseen by the senior section of the club alongside the men’s teams. The senior women’s team will be joined by an under-16 girls' team to form the start of the club’s rebuilding of the female section."

Chichester City Ladies severed ties with Chichester City in the first half of the current season and are now based at Selsey. Their first XI play in the FA Women's National League southern premier division.

Slade said: “We’re looking forward to bringing women’s football back to Oaklands Park and to build on the great potential of Chichester City Football Club. With support from the men’s set-up we’re taking every necessary step to create a team to match the vision of the club.

“I am currently head coach of Chichester University Women’s first team, Brighton DCA & RTC Performance analyst and UEFA B student.

“Also on the coaching staff will be Abbie Robertson, who currently works with the Portsmouth ITC sector, studies Football Coaching at University and holds an FA Level 2 qualification, as well as player experience. We are also currently in talks with a third coach, goalkeeper coach and performance analyst.

“With training facilities, pitches and coaches all falling into place, we are now full steam ahead on the production of the team. We welcome any interest or question you may have.”

City chairman Andy Bell said: “There has been a lot of speculation and misinformation regarding women’s football at the club over the last few months. As a community club, we want to provide football for everyone and rebuilding our female section is a major part of the club’s future.

“With plans for a 3G playing surface well under way, the future of the club is exciting. We maintain the view that Oaklands Park should be seen as the central hub of the club and community.

“We have worked hard to make the club more inclusive and welcoming. In a couple of years the vision is a true one club feel with teams of all ages and abilities being based here.

“Connor and his team fully realise the challenge and have bought into our long term vision. They will have the full support of everyone at the club and we cant wait to get going.

“We are still looking to expand the female section and hope to see more interest from anyone wishing to start a new team. As always the whole club need to be supported by the community and we welcome any new sponsors, volunteers and supporters.”

For more information on joining the new women’s and girls teams please contact Connor Slade via email [email protected] or call 07479 078 371.