Ilkley Town AFC issues statement as committee stands down

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 14:11

Ilkley Town AFC has issued a statement following a vote of no confidence in the committee, who have made the decision to stand down.

"Ilkley Town AFC wishes to address recent developments within the club and provide clarity to our players, parents, volunteers, and wider community.

Over recent weeks, more than 40 of our coaches signed a letter expressing no confidence in the committee. Their concerns centred on a lack of engagement and transparency, as well as shortcomings in the provision of some basic requirements for our junior teams.

Following discussions, the committee made the decision to stand down at the upcoming AGM.

In loyalty to the outgoing Chairman and after over a decade of service, the senior men’s coaching staff felt it was the right time to leave the club. They were followed by senior team squad members.

We thank the coaching team sincerely for their commitment, leadership, and service to Ilkley Town, and we wish them every success in their future endeavours.

We want to make absolutely clear that Ilkley Town’s commitment to a successful senior section has never been in doubt.

Recruitment for a new first team manager is moving at pace, and an update will follow shortly as we look forward to rebuilding a strong and ambitious senior set-up reflecting the values of our club.

Ilkley Town holds a unique position as a true community club - bringing together more than 850 playing members across over 50 junior, senior, and veteran teams.

This breadth is our strength, and it is vital that we move forward in a way that protects and enhances the experience of every member.

To that end, a new committee will be appointed before Christmas to act as responsible stewards of the club for the future. Their focus will be to restore unity, strengthen communication, and ensure that all sections of Ilkley Town - on and off the pitch - receive the support they deserve.

We thank our community for its patience and continued dedication during this period of transition. Together, we will ensure that Ilkley Town emerges stronger, more inclusive, and fully aligned with the footballing pathway values that have helped shape our club over the generations."

[Statement: www.facebook.com/ilkleytown]

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