The Chesterfield FC Women’s team have finished their season but plans are already well underway for their next campaign.
Manager Andrea Parkinson spoke about the plans in place for pre-season and her excitement ahead of the new season.
She said: “We have trials in June for players to come along and try out for the women’s teams.
“We’re really excited as a team and as a group of individuals about the next season and I’m already itching to get back out on the grass in pre-season.
“The off season for any football team can be tough and you definitely miss it, but I think after the season we had it’s even harder.
“I’m so proud of what the girls achieved last season and they deserve so much credit.
“It’s going to be a fantastic season next season; I can already feel that.”
Andrea also revealed plans for a potential pre-season tour in Wales.
“We’re looking to hopefully take a group of players out to Wales for a few days for a pre-season camp,” she said.
“That is really exciting as it will allow us to integrate the new players into the squad a lot easier.
“It will be mainly about team bonding and getting the girls away together, which I anticipate being fantastic if it goes ahead.
“We will also use the opportunity to work on fitness, developing individual’s’abilities and team game play.
“We’re really excited about this prospect; it should be a fantastic opportunity for the whole squad.”
An update was also given on the plans for a development squad for the upcoming season.
She said: “We’re expanding from three teams to five teams in the women’s department next season.
“We’ll be adding a development squad for the women’s team whilst also having an U15s team which we’re really excited about.
“The plans provide us with a stronger pathway for younger girls to rise through the ages and eventually link up with the first team.
“We long-term want to have a real strong pathway for girls in the local area and this is a real big step in the right direction.”
Finally, Andrea had a thank you message she really wanted to express.
“I owe a massive thank you to Paddy Carroll, my assistant coach,” she said.
“He’s been absolutely fantastic with me this season and with everyone else.
“Without him, we wouldn’t have been able to do the job we’ve done.
“He’s gone above and beyond for everyone in the squad and myself this past year so I really owe him a massive thank you.
“As we await our decision on promotion, I’m over the moon with the season just gone so I’m grateful no matter the outcome.”
