Accrington Stanley Women appoint new head coach

Accrington Stanley Women have appointed highly rated UEFA A licenced coach James Mallett as the club’s new first team head coach.

Mallett brings over 15 years of extensive coaching experience, having worked across various levels of the game, including three years in the United States, with a proven track record in developing young talent and driving performance.

Stanley Women had to beat off strong competition to secure Mallett’s signature, having guided Blackburn Community Women’s FC to their highest ever finish in the North West Womens Regional League Premier last season, finishing second in Tier 5, the division above where Stanley Women currently play their trade.

Also counting AFC Fylde Women, Blackburn Rovers RTC, Chorley FC and Leeds United RTC amongst his former clubs, Mallett arrives with an impressive CV, also working as an FA Women’s Talent Reporter, where he contributes to the identification of talent for the England Women’s teams (ages 16-23).

Not only that but Mallett is also a member of the FA Girls’ Female Development Programme focusing on the development of young female footballers, aged U14 – U16, from esteemed North West clubs.

Stanley’s new head coach also boasts qualifications including a UEFA A coaching licence, a UEFA Elite Youth A licence and an MSc in Advanced Performance Football Coaching.

James Mallett, head coach of Accrington Stanley Women, said: “I am incredibly honoured to join Accrington Stanley Women’s Team as the new manager. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a lot of young, talented players and dedicated staff. I am committed to building on the strong foundations that the youth setup has established and striving for success both on and off the pitch.

“My focus will be on developing our players, enhancing our competitive edge, and fostering a culture of teamwork and determination. I know what we need to aim for, and with the support and backing that has already been shown in bringing me into the club, I am very excited to start this journey and to contribute to the growth and success of Accrington Stanley Women FC.”

Sami Smithson, chair of Accrington Stanley Women, said: “We are delighted to welcome James to Accrington Stanley Women FC. His dedication to football coaching and development, along with his significant experience and qualifications, makes him a perfect fit for our club and its ambitions. The club is confident that under his leadership, the team will continue to grow and achieve new heights. We are really excited for season 2024-25.”

Accrington Stanley Women are also recruiting for a number of other roles within the club including a Vice Chair, Development Officers, Coaching positions across various age groups, Physio, Safeguarding and Welfare Specialists, Media and Communications support and a Strength & Conditioning Coach.

Those looking to apply are asked to send a copy of their CV and a short covering statement to [email protected]

Stanley Women are also hosting Open Training Sessions on every Tuesday throughout June for their junior sides and open age teams. U8 to U11 teams will train between 5pm and 6pm, U12 to U15 between 6pm and 7:30pm, and U16+ between 7:30pm and 9pm. All training sessions will take place on the Hyndburn Leisure Centre 3G pitch.

For further updates, visit: https://www.facebook.com/AccringtonStanleyWomen, https://x.com/ASWFCofficial and https://www.instagram.com/accrington_stanley_womenfc/