Real Bedford FC is delighted to announce the expansion of its successful partnership with Bedford Girls & Ladies FC.
A year ago, Real Bedford partnered with Bedford Girls & Ladies to support the development of the female side of the game in Bedford. Today we welcome Bedford Girls & Ladies FC into the Real Bedford family as they rebrand to become Real Bedford Ladies.
This expanding relationship signifies our firm commitment to the growth and success of women’s football within the Bedford community. As we continue our ambitious plan to bring league football to Bedford, we equally want to support the women’s game and bring similar success.
Expanding the partnership between the two clubs will seamlessly integrate Real Bedford Ladies into the Real Bedford brand, reinforcing the principle that a modern football club values men’s and women’s football equally.
All the senior ladies and junior girls teams will play under the Real Bedford name, adding over 50 senior and 200 youth players aged 7 to 16 to The Pirates. Alongside our support of boy’s football with Bedford Park Rangers, this move showcases our dedication to nurturing young talent and fostering a supportive environment for girls to participate in football within the Bedford region.
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Chairman Peter McCormack has worked closely with Bedford Ladies and Girls chairman Jill Upton on this partnership said: “We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Bedford Girls & Ladies FC over the past year, and we are proud to welcome them officially into the Real Bedford family. By incorporating them under the Real Bedford Ladies banner, we aim to create an inclusive environment that celebrates talent and fosters a winning mentality.
“For decades women have supported men’s football – it is time for us to give some support back. We firmly believe that a modern football club must prioritise and champion women’s football. This partnership shows our commitment to growing the opportunities for girls to play football in Bedford.”
Jill Upton Chair of Bedford Ladies and Girls FC said: “We have enjoyed the support from Real Bedford and are happy to further integrate this season. Peter McCormack has a refreshing interest in equality of the female game, and we are confident this will elevate us to the next level.”
In addition to a new identity, Real Bedford Ladies will benefit from access to Real Bedford facilities, funding, training equipment, and new kits. The club’s management, marketing, and development teams will also extend their support to Real Bedford Ladies, supporting them in recruiting and developing players.
Last season we introduced financial support for the ladies’ senior team and will continue to pay players expenses to ensure there is no cost to them for representing Real Bedford.
We will also make available money for developing coaches and provide a hardship fund to ensure the cost of living does not exclude any young girls who want to play football.community.
The transition to Real Bedford Ladies will provide a larger platform to recruit and develop young players and grow the ladies game.
