Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC is thrilled to announce that Connor Shanks and Ben Blythe have today committed their futures to the club by signing new contracts, securing their places at Horsfall Stadium until the end of the 2024/25 season.
This exciting development was made possible thanks to the exceptional support and funding from the Bradford (Park Avenue) Development Fund.
Connor Shanks: Known for his skill and versatility, Shanksy first donned the iconic Green and White last season while on loan from Spennymoor Town. This season, Connor has made 16 appearances, scoring 5 goals.
Originally from Halifax, Shanks developed through Huddersfield Town’s youth system before joining Bradford City’s Academy in 2017.
He made his senior debut in the EFL Trophy for the Bantams in September 2017 before rejoining Huddersfield after the conclusion of his contract.
His time with Spennymoor saw him make 10 appearances, during which he notably scored off the bench against Darlington and secured a dramatic equalizer in the dying moments against Scarborough.
Ben Blythe: A standout in defense, Ben Blythe first rose to prominence in the 2019-20 season, captaining Doncaster Rovers’ under-18s to their inaugural league title since the academy’s inception.
His leadership and solid defensive capabilities earned him a professional contract in July 2020. Blythe made his senior debut for Doncaster Rovers in May 2021 in a League One clash with Peterborough United and gained valuable experience on loan at Farsley Celtic in the National League North.
Upon his return, he earned his first league start against Oxford United. In March 2022, Blythe joined Swansea City’s U23 team after a successful trial, later embarking on a productive loan at Barry Town in the Cymru Premier, where he made 22 appearances, scoring twice and adding two assists. This season for Bradford (Park Avenue), Ben Blythe has made 7 appearances, scoring once.
We look forward to seeing Connor and Ben continue to contribute to the club’s success and wish them both the best as they continue their journey with us at Horsfall. Watch their interview below.
