Bootham Ladies Futsal Club are delighted and honoured to announce a new leadership team ahead of the upcoming season.

Long-standing captain and club legend Ellie Whittaker has stepped down from the role due to injury. After leading the Ladies team since its formation, Ellie hands over the captain’s armband to club stalwart and last season’s vice-captain, Jess Baker. Joining Jess in the leadership group as vice-captain is England U23 international and Bootham Academy graduate Heather Smith.

Speaking about stepping down, Ellie Whittaker said:

“After a fantastic 4 years of captaining Bootham, I’ve decided it’s time to pass the armband on to Jess. Tapping out as reigning league champions feels like a natural time to step aside, and I have no doubt that the team will go from strength to strength under her leadership. I’m excited to bring Heather into the leadership group as vice captain, as her development has been phenomenal and she has cemented herself as one of the most influential players in our squad, and one of the most promising in the country. At the moment I’m not sure how much I’ll be able to contribute this season because of injuries, but im excited to be Bootham’s biggest fan even if I can’t contribute on the court. I’m excited to see many of our young players graduating from the academy this year and I have no doubt that there is another fantastic season in store.”

New captain Jess Baker said:

“It’s an honour to take over as captain for the new season. Ellie has been an amazing captain to us all, and I’m looking forward to following in her footsteps. We can’t wait for the new season to start and we’re already training hard throughout pre-season. It’s also really exciting to see so many of our Academy players ready to make their debut for the Ladies team.”

New vice-captain Heather Smith added:

“I can’t wait for the new season. It’s a huge honour to be given the role of vice-captain, and I hope I can help support all those players making the step up from the Academy into the Ladies squad this season, just as I did a few years ago.”

Head Coach Chris Collins paid tribute to the outgoing captain while expressing his confidence in the club’s new leadership team:

“We’re gutted that Ellie is unable to continue as captain. She has led the Ladies team since day one and has been instrumental in building the culture and standards that define this club. We always knew this day would come, but that doesn’t make it any easier.

I’m absolutely delighted for both Jess and Heather. They have become club legends in their own right through their commitment, leadership and performances, and I have no doubt they will lead this team with the same passion, dedication and values that Ellie has shown over the years.”

With the new season fast approaching, there is plenty for supporters to look forward to. Keep an eye on our media channels for announcements on new signings, fixture releases, and ways you can support the Ladies team as they look to defend their National Tier 2 title.