Wigginton Grasshoppers, based in the north of York, have confirmed a new partnership with the Leeds United Foundation.
The partnership will help provide a pathway for both boys and girls at Wigginton Grasshoppers to maximise their potential, both on and off of the pitch.
Wigginton Grasshoppers currently boast over 500 players, which includes both boys and girls teams, and has a rich history after being formed as far back as 1982.
Leeds United Academy had approached Wigginton earlier this year to partner through their Community Link programme, which helps produce a pathway for young male footballers to progress into academy football.
The clubs have since worked together to form an additional partnership for girls with the Foundation, which also provides opportunities to progress at Leeds, attend Leeds United Women's fixtures and have the chances through the Female Coaching Programme.
Speaking on the new partnership, Abigail Lee, Head of Women's and Girl's Football at the Leeds United Foundation, commented: "We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Wigginton Grasshoppers.
"Their commitment to providing equal opportunities for boys and girls at every stage of the game really reflects our own values at Leeds United Foundation.
“At the moment we’re engaging with more than 1,200 females every single week within the Women and Girls department, and we’re proud to offer a pathway that starts at age six and runs right through into education and open age football.
"That pathway sits perfectly alongside what Grasshoppers are building, and it means that together we can provide genuine opportunities for girls at every level of the game.
“For us, it’s not just about supporting young players on the pitch but also creating pathways that allow them to grow as people - whether that’s developing into academy players, gaining experience through our participation programmes, or stepping into coaching roles as young female leaders.
“To see a club with such a strong focus on inclusion and progression is inspiring, and we’re excited about the opportunities this partnership will open up for girls and young women in particular.
"Together we can help ensure that every player has the chance to reach their potential and feel part of the wider Leeds United family.”
Dave Moorhouse, Chair of Wigginton Grasshoppers, added: "At Wigginton Grasshoppers we’re incredibly proud of our focus on equal opportunities for both girls and boys.
"Partnering with Leeds United and the Leeds United Foundation in this unique and inclusive way is really special to us because it provides the opportunity for everyone at the club to reach for their maximum potential.
"Working alongside such a respected club and foundation gives our young players genuine pathways to develop both on and off the pitch as footballers, as coaches and as great young people.
"It further strengthens our commitment to helping every child involved with our club - now and in their footballing future.
"It’s an incredibly exciting moment for everyone involved with Grasshoppers, and we’re looking forward to seeing the partnership grow and create lasting benefits for our players, coaches, and wider community."