Article by Fiona-May Swanson.

The recruitment process began early on, Rory Shadbolt, the manager of the reserves team described how the response was; “extremely positive, with a great turnout at trials and a high standard of talent on show.” The team has signed under 18 players along with external recruits and Rory said; “the blend of youth and experience has been key to building a strong and united team culture from day one”.

The team currently sits fourth in the table, and Rory described how it has been a positive and encouraging start; “Week by week, the players are showing real progress, both individually and collectively… The signs are very promising for the rest of the campaign, and we’re excited to see how far this group can go.”

The team is focusing this season on continuing to develop the young players and providing them with a platform to gain experience within the men’s game. They aim to finish as high up the league table as possible, however will be measuring the success of the season on progression in individual player development and in how they efficiently prepare the players for the next step. Rory emphasised how; “If we can see one or two of our players make that leap to First Team appearances this season, it would be a proud moment for everyone involved.”

Another of the key focuses this season has been to strengthen the link between the first and reserve team, and this has already been heavily incorporated. Players from the reserves have been earning regular opportunities to train with the first team, exposing them to a higher level of football and challenging them to adapt, learn and raise their standards.

Rory said; “It’s brilliant to watch players stepping out of their comfort zones, taking on new challenges, and showing the desire to push themselves further.

Creating this pathway ensures that our players can see a clear route of progression within the club, motivating them to work harder and stay committed to their development.”

The club has recently made the change to remove the limitation that prevented players over the age of 21 being a part of the team. The current squad reflects this, with 17-year-olds mixed with experienced players over 21.

Rory described how this “Teaches players the physical, mental, and tactical demands of senior-level football… and creates a balanced environment that promotes growth, resilience, and competition.”

Rory was also recently appointed as Head of Coaching at the club, meaning his role includes identifying which players are ready to make the step up. He spoke on his journey and said; “It’s fantastic to return to Curzon Ashton as a full-time member of staff, working with the next generation of talented players and supporting their development and progression.

I’m also working closely with Mark and the First Team staff, helping to strengthen the connection between the Reserves and the First Team.”

The reserve team at Curzon-Ashton aims to bridge the gap between youth and senior football by creating opportunities to learn, compete, and to thrive in the men’s game. The launch of the Curzon Ashton Reserves has been an exciting and important step for the club’s player pathway. “The journey has only just begun, but with the talent, attitude, and ambition within this group, the future looks very bright indeed.”