Ahead of the 2025/26 season, Harrogate Town have revealed details of the club's new Youth Development structure.
Former Captain Josh Falkingham has been appointed as the club’s first Director of Youth Football and will lead the overall Youth Football strategy including the Player Development Centres (PDC) and Advanced level (APDC).
Falkingham will also take charge of the club’s newly created ‘B’ Team and U18’s BTEC Football Academy, in partnership with Rossett School.
Falkingham made over 300 appearances across eight seasons at the club, during which time he worked on his coaching badges and managed teams within the youth set up.
Josh will be assisted by Lead Coach Tom Hullock in the management of both teams, with Town’s ‘B’ Team competing in the EFL Central League and BTEC Football Academy in the National League Youth Alliance League. Tom will also continue leading the club’s U16s team.
Ryan Smith continues his role as head of PDC centres, overseeing more than 500 young footballers training each week with the club’s coaching team.
Due to the success of the PDC and its continued growth, the club have introduced a new position to assist Ryan and their Advanced Player Development Centres will be headed up by former Lead PDP coach, Kevin Wilson.
Kevin has spent the last season working with the club’s Academy players, helping three scholars earn professional contracts.
He has a wealth of experience as an ex professional player for a number of clubs including Chelsea, and as a scout for future talent.
A club spokesperson said:
"Harrogate Town are passionate about developing young players and are committed to providing more opportunities than ever before for local talented players who wish to pursue a professional playing career.
"First team Management led by Simon Weaver will be working closely with Josh and the Youth Management team to create a clear pathway into the first team and embody the Club’s ethos with a fully connected approach."
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