Gavin Allen takes charge of Aberystwyth Town Ladies
ABERYSTWYTH, WALES - 09 DECEMBER 2020: The JD Cymru Premier league fixture between Aberystwyth Town F.C and Bala Town F.C, Aberystwyth, Wales. Pics by John Smith / FAW
Gavin Allen has been installed as the new manager of Welsh Premier Women’s League side Aberystwyth Town Ladies.
Aber, who finished bottom of the league last season, have been admitted into the FAW’s new eight-team Tier One League and have promoted from within.
Allen, who was succeeded by Antonio Corbisiero, as manager of the men’s team, was seeking a new opportunity and will now lead the Black and Greens into a new era of Women’s football, replacing Andy Evans in the hot seat.
The 44-year-old, who also holds the role of Head of Coaching and is also studying for the UEFA Pro Licence, had been in the dugout in Aber’s 4-0 defeat to Cardiff Met in May.
Commenting on his appointment of the Ladies’ side, Allen said: “The club have been more supportive than ever of our women and girls’ section, at a time where women’s football is on the up.
“It seemed like the right time for me to make this move, to take on a completely new challenge and build on the structures already in place to ensure that our women’s team become more competitive in the WPWL.
“I’ll be focusing heavily on recruitment over the summer, as well as putting together a robust pre-season programme to properly prepare the team for the league start in September.”
Club captain Caroline Cooper added: “I am very excited at the prospect of working with Gavin Allen this coming season. He has the ability to relate and connect with us with his knowledge, passion, and experience in the game.
“This in turn will inspire us to believe in ourselves, develop our football skills, and perform to our full potential. This is going to be a great time to be involved in ladies’ football at Aberystwyth Town FC.”
In addition to Cooper’s comments, Donald Kane, club chairman said: “Gavin is certain to bring a huge amount of expertise, experience and organisational background to the Ladies set up. As a club, we are optimistic that we can thrive in the reformed league set up next year.
“With the new age groups added to the Girls Development Centre, the future looks very encouraging for us and it’s something that will benefit further from Gavin’s coaching and managerial skillset.”
