Women’s and academy set-ups boosted by Killie Trust partnership

Kilmarnock Football Club and The Killie Trust have strengthened ties through a new partnership which will inject substantial funds into the club’s women’s and academy programmes over the course of a two-year agreement.

Underpinning a commitment to “promote, develop and support Kilmarnock Football Club”, The Killie Trust has invested in becoming the title partner of Kilmarnock Women FC, plus each of the boys’ and girls’ academy age groups. As part of an initiative that was voted for by The Killie Trust’s members, women’s and academy team shirts will proudly adorn the Trust’s emblem until 2025.

The new agreement builds upon the Trust’s long-standing support of youth development, which has helped to form academy foundations that have nurtured emerging talents such as Bobby Wales and David Watson who recently graduated to the senior game.

Success of links with the youth teams has led to an enhanced association which will now encompass Kilmarnock Women FC and the newly-formed girls’ academy, adding to a milestone season which has seen professional contracts signed by women’s players for the first time in the club’s history.

Despite being at the early stages of its development, the girls’ academy has already resulted in five homegrown teenagers being handed senior debuts this season, with new investment set to further establish a pathway towards the women’s first-team.

Phyllis McLeish, Managing Director of Kilmarnock Football Club, commented: “We’re really pleased that the connection with The Killie Trust is continuing to evolve and open new avenues to develop the club.”

“Rewards of the association with our youth academy are already clear to see and we’re excited about the growth opportunities for Kilmarnock Women FC, and the girls’ academy, which will come with this strengthening relationship.”

Cathy Jamieson, Trust Board Director, added: “We know that supporters take real pleasure in witnessing the development of homegrown players as they emerge onto the scene. The Trust’s strengthening links with the academies will continue to amplify those development opportunities for young boys and girls in the community.”

“Growing investment and support of Kilmarnock Women FC comes at an exciting time in the expansion of the women’s programme and we look forward to building on the many success stories that we’ve witnessed during this landmark season.”