Hillians double up on return to ladies game

Ryman South Burgess Hill Town will be fielding two ladies teams next season at the Green Elephants Stadium after not running a side for four years.

The Hillians announced on Tuesday that Haywards Heath Town FC, who played at their home last season, had accepted an offer to play under their banner and become their new ladies sides.

Former coach Tony McDonald has also returned to the Sussex club who last fielded a team in 2009, pictured. He will take charge of the Ladies section and manage the first team as part of their move back into the women’s game.

McDonald said: "It’s a pleasure and honour to return to management at BHTFC. The ladies section carry a Charter Standard into a well run and progressive club. The enthusiasm from all in setting up this venture has been excellent.

"The commitment going forward is to provide a level of football firstly for those girls who want to progress from junior level and to that end we have a clearly defined link with Southdown Girls to ensure progression to the highest achievable tier in ladies football. Exciting times."

Haywards Heath Town are the second oldest women’s club in Sussex after being formed in 1978. An FA Charter Standard Club, they are one of only three clubs in the county to have two teams playing in the South East Counties Women’s Football League. As a result, the new Hillians first team will play in the competition’s Premier Division and the second string in Division 1 West.

In a club statement, the Hillians urged potential players to get in touch as soon as possible following their announcement. "This is an exciting development for the Ladies section and with an experienced management team in place and a good mixture of youth and experience player-wise, the ladies are looking forward to an enjoyable and successful season ahead," said the club.

"There are just a few vacancies for players, whether experienced women footballers or new to the sport. Training will start in early June and possible new members wishing to enjoy their football should contact Club Secretary Peter Hickman without delay at: bhtlfc@talktalk.net."

Image courtesy of BHTLFC