York City FC today confirms a major milestone in the evolution of the women’s game in York, as York City Ladies FC formally transfers into the management and strategic oversight of York City FC under a newly established Board of Directors.
This development marks a significant step forward in uniting the club’s football operations and strengthening the long-term pathway for female players across the club and the city.
The new structure will provide enhanced exposure, greater technical expertise, and increased operational support for the women’s first team, ensuring the programme is fully aligned with the club’s ambitions for growth, professionalism, and community impact. However, it won’t only be the first team that sees increased opportunities; the development squad, PDP and York College Development Centre squads will be part of the player journey.
As part of this progression, York City FC is launching its first-ever search for a full-time Women’s Head Coach, who will lead the squad into the FA Women’s National League next season. This historic appointment represents a clear commitment to raising standards, attracting high-calibre coaching talent, and delivering a performance environment that supports players on and off the pitch.
Included in the developments and reformation the club will now see Bobby Paterson undertake the role of Women’s Pathway Development Manager, this role will allow the club to continue its growth across all post-16 programmes. Bobby brings great experience to the role and will drive the pathway forward, starting first and foremost with the introduction of the female PDP this coming season.
This announcement is the latest in a series of transformative steps taken under the leadership of the Uggla family, whose vision continues to drive a renewed sense of unity, ambition, and pride across the club and the city. Their commitment to building a one-club culture where men’s, women’s, academy, and community programmes work side by side remains central to York City FC’s long-term strategy.
Speaking on the integration, co-chair Julie-Anne Uggla said, “Today marks a defining moment for women’s football in York. Bringing York City Ladies FC under an independent board of directors ensures the women’s programme receives the visibility, resources, and professional support it deserves.
“The creation of a full-time Head Coach role is a powerful statement of intent and reflects our belief in the potential of the women’s game here in York. We must not forget the tremendous footings that have been set by our Foundation over previous seasons and we look forward to seeing them create the next generation of female players via the ETC and performance pathways.”
CEO York City FC Foundation and York City Ladies Chairperson Paula Stainton said, “It has been my absolute pleasure to Chair York City Ladies for the last twelve years, and we have achieved great things during that time including the development of a full junior pathway with great successes both in our First Team and up to the Lionesses, with Jess Park and more recently Lottie Day and Abbie Jones at Under 17’s; as well as promotion to the FA Women’s National League; winners and taking part in various County Cup Finals and of course, our historical run this season in the Women’s FA Cup making it to the fourth round.
If interested in applying for the Head Coach role, please read the job description and apply via emailing [email protected].
The club will share further updates in the coming weeks as the recruitment process begins and preparations for the 2026/27 season continue.
