Launching 2025 - UDA Chester Women's Academy

We are delighted to announce the launch of a Women's Chester Academy in September 2025. The academy will play in the university league and against top-tier women's teams in the north west region of England. In addition, players will also have the opportunity to compete for Chester City Ladies and/or other clubs in higher tiers of the English women's game under the direction of our UDA staff.

The initial squad will comprise students from around the USA.Our Women’s Recruitment Director, Brenton Dawson has been developing a pool of qualified women both on and off the field from across the USA over the last two years. For 2025, we already have 14 student-athletes committed to joining our program. These women visited the University of Chester last summer where they were able to meet the coaching staff and academic faculty, view facilities, and see the iconic city of Chester. 

John Dyke, UDA program Director who has previously worked with Manchester City and City Football Group in the USA, expressed his enthusiasm for the establishment of our women’s high-performance centre. He stated, “We already have an excellent player development curriculum, and the women will be fully integrated into our coaching staff, who also work with the men’s academy. We are actively seeking a suitable coach to join our team and further support the women’s program.”

He added, “We will offer high-performance showcase games against top-tier regional women's teams. Our strong community relationships will provide the women with opportunities to compete at the highest level possible, supported by our extensive connections.” 

As we embark on this new initiative, we look forward to expanding the Chester Women’s Academy and welcoming a talented group of student-athletes this fall. 
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