Forest Green Rovers has today announced new steps to greater compete in women’s football. 

The FGR Women’s team will now become part of the club, having previously been an independent organisation. 

The club also plans to launch a girl’s academy - a new initiative from Head of Academy, Hannah Dingley. The new set-up will eventually mirror the club’s current boys set up – and develop players from 8 years and upwards.

FGR Women and the FGR Girls Academy will join the first team and boys academy at the club’s new facilities, set to be built at Forest Green Rovers new home, Eco Park – off junction 13 of the M5.

On the back of its unbeaten record in the curtailed 2020/21 season, Forest Green Rovers Women have applied to play in the Premier Division of the South West Women’s Regional Football League. 

In the 2021/22 season – FGR will play at Chalford and will build on the foundations of its current squad. 

Dale Vince, Chairman, Forest Green Rovers, said: “We’ve wanted to do this for a long-time, and I’m pleased we’ve been able to get this done ahead of the new season. We have an exciting vision for the future. 

David Hennessey, Head of Women’s Football, Forest Green Rovers, added: “At a time when many clubs are stepping back from their women’s teams, it’s great to see that FGR are stepping up their support, embracing women’s football and the benefit it will bring to the local community.

“We’re all excited for the season ahead and hope this commitment will help attract new players.”