A FORMER Welsh youth international will lead the new women’s team set-up by Colwyn Bay FC.

The Seagulls’ confirmed the latest in a series of positive steps across the club both on and off the pitch, which is all part of their desire to forge strong community links after moving back to the Welsh domestic system following a three-decade stay in the English structure in 2019.

The newly formed women’s senior team is set to be a part of the Tier 2 North League for the 2021/22 season, with further details set to be released in due course.

Neil Coverley, director of football at Colwyn Bay, said: “As a club we brought the juniors closer and become a more integral part of us, the Academy has had an overhaul in recent months and is becoming stronger month by month, and now we have a group of coaches learning, engaging and very proactive under Head Coach Matt Sampson.

"The formation of a Senior Ladies team, which will apply to be part of the newly formed Tier 2 North for the 2021/22 season, is truly exciting news and one which help give an opportunity for local girls and ladies to play football at a very high standard against the best in Wales.”

The team will be managed by Louisha Doran, who represented Wales at U17 level and is embarking on her FAW ‘A’ Licence qualification in the near future.

She has also turned out for Llandudno Ladies during a standout playing career and is sure to bring a tremendous amount to the role.

Sampson, added: “I want the Women's team and subsequent girls Academy U19s to have real sustainability within the club banner and it signifies the importance and value that we place on the development of the women's game at Colwyn Bay."

Initial reaction to the news has been “very encouraging” according to the club, and any interested players are urged to keep an eye on the Seagulls’ social media channels for information in the coming weeks.