Clapton CFC has welcomed AFC Stoke Newington on board as the club’s new women’s team.
The renamed team will play in the Greater London League Division 1, with home games at the Stray Dog in Walthamstow.
Stoke Newington AFC, who were promoted as Division 2 runners-up last season, had only been founded in 2015 by Ian Bruce who coached girls from a local school.
Bruce told the club’s website: “I’ve always wanted the club to reflect the demographic of Hackney. And I’ve always wanted to give people the chance to play football. We don’t want to say no. There might be times where a player isn’t quite the calibre 0f the first team. But we wouldn’t say don’t come to training or don’t be a part of it. There are always opportunities to be involved in 5-a-side leagues or friendly matches.”
Looking ahead to the new season, player-manager Alice Nutman said: “My aim is for a solid mid-table finish. It’s going to be difficult. I think for the first time we’re having a massive step up. But I think it’s doable. Our team this year has much more strength in depth than it had before.”
