Bodmin Town Ladies FC are about to do something remarkable. If all goes to plan, they will soon become the first Cornish women’s team to go unbeaten in the league for two consecutive years.
By Jane Jardine
Established at the start of the 2011-12 season by current club secretary and manager Rose Pannell-Hitchens, Bodmin Town Ladies started as a project to give players who had dropped out the game (as well as newcomers) a chance to get involved with football in East Cornwall.
“I feel hugely proud to have founded a successful club like Bodmin Town Ladies,” says Rose, “but it couldn’t have been done without the generosity of volunteers and sponsors who made it possible for us to focus on working hard on the pitch. The dedication of our squad members is second to none and their passion to be successful shows.”
The combination of experience, commitment and enthusiasm for the game has made Bodmin Town that success. They were unbeaten (not even drawing) in their first season in division two of the Cornish Women’s League as well as the divisional cup competition, making it comfortably to the league cup final where they were beaten by Truro City. With two league titles and a second place finish to their name, they entered their second season with confidence, aiming to better their achievements and clinch all three titles.
With an ever-growing team of determined players, Bodmin now play in Division One where, with one game left to play, they have won every league and cup game so far and are in sight of that unbeaten record.
Captain Claire Todd explained why the team is so special to her: “The thing about Bodmin Town is the fact that all efforts that are given by individuals at the club are recognised and thanked by all. Our success this year is built upon what happened last year, and although some players have moved on to new clubs, we still thank them for their hard work that got us where we are today.”
A big part of the club’s triumphs is down to the support it receives from Bodmin Town AFC, as well as sponsorship deals from Bodmin based business ‘Ruses Gas’. Club friends like Vicky Fisher (who now coaches in Dubai – lucky thing) and this season’s new assistant manager, Johanna Small, also help to achieve the clubs success.
Regarding the record, Rose and the squad are certain that they’ll be able to do it. As she puts it: “Bodmin Town players are thirsty for success!”
Bodmin’s next couple of fixtures are:
Sunday 3rd Feb: Newquay Celtic Away in the DIV One Cup
Sunday 17th Feb: CCFA Cup Quarter Final Dobwalls Home
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