Bradford (Park Avenue) U19s begin their FA Youth Cup journey this evening with a home tie against Garforth Town U19s under the lights at the Horsfall Community Stadium.
The match promises to be an exciting contest as both sides look to progress in the competition, with Avenue’s youngsters eager to continue the positive momentum built during pre-season. Supporters are encouraged to come along and get behind the team in what should be a great occasion for the club’s Football Education Programme.
Fixture Details Bradford (Park Avenue) U19s vs Garforth Town U19s Wednesday 3rd September Kick-off: 7:00pm Horsfall Community Stadium, BD6 2NG Admission: £3 Adults, £1 U18s
Food and refreshments will be available on the night from the Horton Park Suite, including Caribbean stewed chicken with rice and peas, and freshly baked double chocolate cookies.
We look forward to welcoming supporters to Horsfall as our U19s take centre stage in the FA Youth Cup.
Bradford (Park Avenue) closed out the opening month of the 2025/26 Northern Premier League East Division unbeaten, sitting top of the table with three wins and three draws from their opening six fixtures.
It has been a month that showcased both resilience and promise, with Craig Elliott’s side grinding out results against promotion contenders and finding momentum across a busy opening month.
Full August goals video available at the bottom of this article.
Matlock Town 0-0 Bradford (Park Avenue) – Saturday 9 August
The campaign began with a hard-fought point on the road against one of the division’s fancied sides. A disciplined display saw Avenue hold Matlock to a goalless draw at The Proctor Cars Stadium.
Marcus Carver almost stole the headlines with an audacious long-range effort, while at the other end Jack Hall remained largely untroubled. A competitive contest set the tone for Avenue’s defensive organisation, with Elliott praising his side’s structure and work rate.
Bradford (Park Avenue) 1-1 Emley – Tuesday 12 August
Horsfall hosted Avenue’s first home game, an entertaining clash with Emley. After falling behind to a fine strike from Laurence Sorhaindo, the hosts hit back immediately as Connor Shanks teed up Louie Chorlton for a composed equaliser.
Avenue dominated much of the second half, creating several chances and even striking the woodwork, but the match ended in chaos as Mark Beevers and Jameel Ible both saw red in a frantic finale. The point kept Avenue unbeaten, though suspensions loomed. Mark Beevers red card was later rescinded after a quick FA investigation.
Hallam 1-1 Bradford (Park Avenue) – Tuesday 19 August
A first-ever league visit to Sandygate, the world’s oldest football ground, produced another battling draw. Hallam started brightly and went ahead through Brandon Bradbury before missing a chance to double their lead from the penalty spot.
Avenue grew into the contest and levelled through a thunderous Prince Ekpolo strike from distance. Chances came at both ends in an open second half, but neither side could find the winner.
Bradford (Park Avenue) 3-1 Dunston UTS – Saturday 23 August
Victory finally arrived in style at Horsfall. Carver’s bullet header from a Winfield corner gave Avenue a deserved first-half lead, and Dunston were reduced to 10 men before the break.
The visitors briefly levelled through Jude Swailes, but Avenue responded immediately as Chorlton restored the advantage before turning provider for Winfield to add a third. A confident performance earned Elliott his first league win of the season.
Pontefract Collieries 0-3 Bradford (Park Avenue) – Monday 25 August
Momentum carried Avenue to back-to-back wins over the Bank Holiday weekend. Playing at Ossett United’s Ingfield ground, Avenue turned on the style in the second half.
Captain Beevers broke the deadlock with a header, before Winfield lashed in a brilliant second moments later. The winger was at it again late on, his free kick looping in to seal a commanding 3-0 victory.
Bradford (Park Avenue) 1-0 Ossett United – Friday 29 August
The month ended under the lights at Horsfall, with Avenue grinding out a third straight win. Carver struck the decisive goal, reacting quickest after Hassan-Smith’s low ball was parried into his path.
Though not the most fluent display, Avenue’s togetherness and defensive resolve saw them take maximum points and climb to the top of the table.
Manager’s Reflection
Speaking after the Ossett United victory, Elliott said:
“I don’t think it was the best game and I don’t think it’s the best we’ve played this year, but I don’t really care to be honest with you. They’re the wins that you look back on and enjoy throughout the season. We showed a lot of grit, determination and togetherness to grind out a 1-0 win against a team that make it hard for you.
I think it was us that had the better moments – Louie had a really strong game and got into good positions. In the end I’m just really happy to win the game, get a clean sheet, stay unbeaten and keep the positive vibe going at the club.
Three wins now in less than a week – you’ve got to be happy with that. I know how hard it is to win games in this league. Lots of teams give you different challenges, and there are different pitches to deal with away from home. To do that while carrying a few injuries too, it’s a lot of credit to the players. Hopefully they can now recover, get a good week of training in, and be ready for the next challenge.”
Bradford (Park Avenue) return to cup action this weekend as Craig Elliott’s side host Redcar Athletic in the FA Trophy First Qualifying Round at the Horsfall Community Stadium.
The tie takes place on Saturday 6 September, 3pm kick-off, with Avenue looking to continue their strong early-season form in front of the Green Army.
Match Details
Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC vs Redcar Athletic 📅 Saturday 6 September ⏰ 3pm Kick-Off 📍 Horsfall Community Stadium, BD6 2NG
🎟️ Admission Prices – Note for supporters that Season Tickets are not eligible for this match as it is the FA Trophy.
Adding to the weekend atmosphere, the BPA Development Fund are hosting their Beer Festival alongside the game at the Horsfall.
Friday 5 September: 6:30pm – 11pm
Saturday 6 September: 12pm – 10pm
Sunday 7 September: 12pm – 10pm
Tuesday 9 September: 6pm – 10pm
Supporters can enjoy a wide range of drinks and entertainment across the four days, making it a true community weekend.
More Action at the Horsfall
The football isn’t the only action taking place on Saturday. Following Avenue’s FA Trophy clash, West Bowling ARLFC will be in action at the Horsfall, taking on Waterhead Warriors in a 6pm kick-off.
It means supporters can enjoy a full day of sport, starting with Bradford (Park Avenue) in the afternoon, followed by rugby league in the evening – all set against the backdrop of the Beer Festival.
Craig Elliott’s side will be aiming to progress in a competition the club are eager to do well in, while fans can also enjoy everything the Beer Festival and wider community programme has to offer.
We look forward to welcoming both sets of supporters – and the Green Army – for what promises to be a fantastic occasion on and off the pitch.
Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Humayun Islam as the Foundation and Club’s new Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) Consultant.
Humayun brings with him a wealth of experience in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across sport and community projects. At our recent home match against Ossett United, Humayun was welcomed to Horsfall where he gave a speech in the Hospitality Suite, outlining his vision for supporting the Club and Foundation’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity.
Alongside his new role with Bradford (Park Avenue), Humayun holds several senior positions within sport and community development. He serves on the Board of Trustees at Bradford City FC Community Foundation, is a Non-Executive with West Riding FA, and a Non-Executive Director at Lancashire Cricket Foundation.
His appointment underlines our commitment to embedding ED&I at the heart of everything we do. From our work in the community to the matchday experience at Horsfall Community Stadium, our aim is to ensure that Avenue continues to be a space where all individuals feel valued, respected, and supported.
Humayun will work closely with both the Foundation and the Club to build on existing initiatives and develop new opportunities to strengthen inclusivity across all areas of our work. His guidance and expertise will play a vital part in shaping how we grow as a truly community-driven club.
We are excited to welcome Humayun into the Green Army family and look forward to the positive impact he will bring to our ongoing journey.
Bradford (Park Avenue) are delighted to announce, subject to league approval, the signing of experienced and versatile defender Luke Hendrie on a deal until the end of the season.
Hendrie grew up in Menston and attended St Mary’s Menston Catholic Voluntary Academy before beginning his footballing journey with Bradford City, later joining the Manchester United Academy as a teenager. He earned a professional contract at Old Trafford in 2012 and developed both as a right-back and central defender, before moving on to Derby County.
His senior breakthrough came with Burnley, where he gained valuable experience out on loan at Hartlepool United, York City and Scottish Premiership side Kilmarnock. A return to West Yorkshire followed in 2017, as Hendrie re-joined Bradford City on loan, before later enjoying permanent spells at Shrewsbury Town and Grimsby Town – making over 100 appearances for the Mariners.
Subsequent moves saw Hendrie turn out for Hartlepool United and Bradford City once again, while more recently he was part of the Morecambe squad in League Two, where he was named the club’s Player of the Season in 2023/24.
Across his career, Luke has made over 264 professional appearances, bringing leadership, composure and adaptability to Avenue’s defensive options.
Coming from a strong footballing family, Hendrie follows in the footsteps of his father John, who played for Bradford City, Middlesbrough and Leeds United. His great-uncle Paul also played and managed in the Football League, while his wider family includes former England international Lee Hendrie and ex-Morecambe striker Stuart Hendrie.
Manager Craig Elliott said:
“I am delighted we have managed to get this signing over the line. Luke’s pedigree speaks for itself. Only last season he was Player of the Season in League Two with Morecambe. He will bring great quality and experience as well as covering three or four positions within the team.”
Luke Hendrie added:
“I’m really excited to be signing for the club after a fantastic start to the season. This fits in perfectly with my next chapter and I’ve had some really good conversations with the manager. I’m looking forward to getting going.”
The club would like to thank the Bradford (Park Avenue) Development Fund for their help and support in making this signing possible.
The Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation is pleased to share that we have recently met with Age UK Bradford District to begin discussions on how we can work together in the future.
As part of this developing relationship, the Foundation has committed to inviting Age UK Bradford District to an upcoming First Team matchday at Horsfall Community Stadium. This will be a great opportunity to welcome their team, highlight their important work, and continue exploring ways we can support older people across Bradford.
We look forward to further talks on how this partnership can grow, delivering projects and opportunities that will benefit both organisations and, most importantly, our local community.
![Photo shows Mat Everett, Community Director, Chris Maher, Age UK Bradford District Community Buddies Champion, and Sarah Murray, Age UK Bradford District Income Generation Assistant.]
Bradford (Park Avenue) return to Horsfall Stadium TONIGHT as they take on Ossett United under the lights in the Pitching In Northern Premier League East Division.
Craig Elliott’s side head into the fixture on the back of a positive Bank Holiday weekend, securing back-to-back victories over Dunston UTS and Pontefract Collieries. Saturday’s 3–1 win at Horsfall was followed by a commanding 3–0 triumph away at Ingfield, where Mark Beevers and Charlie Winfield (2) were on the scoresheet. The results leave Avenue unbeaten in the league and building momentum as the early stages of the season continue.
Tonight’s visitors Ossett United have had a difficult start to the season, with 3 losses and 1 draw. Matches between the two sides have traditionally been competitive and well-attended, and another lively contest is expected under the lights at Horsfall.
Kick-off is at 7:45pm and Avenue will be hoping for another strong backing from the Green Army as they look to continue their unbeaten run.
The spirit of inclusion and community will be at the heart of the Yorkshire Rotary Accessible Games this October, as people with disabilities come together to enjoy a special day of sport, fun and inspiration.
The Games, now in their second year, take place on Sunday 19th October 2025 at Woodhouse Grove School, Apperley Bridge. Open to anyone aged 9 and above who is registered as having a disability, the event is free to enter and promises a welcoming environment where everyone is encouraged to get involved.
Competitors will have the chance to take part in up to three activities, with options ranging from archery, athletics and swimming to boccia, darts, table tennis, kurling and wheelchair races. For those looking to try something new, there will also be taster sessions in football skills, cricket, goalball and even soft play axe throwing.
Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation will be supporting the event, with Lewis Harris and Mat Everett both involved in the build-up and on the day itself. Their presence reflects the Foundation’s commitment to providing inclusive opportunities and supporting initiatives that bring people together through sport.
The Games are organised and supported by Yorkshire Rotary, who have ensured that entry is completely free for both competitors and carers. Free tea and coffee will be available throughout the day, with food and soft drinks on sale from the cashless café.
Whether attending as an individual or as part of a group, the Games are about more than competition — they are about creating memories, building friendships and celebrating what people can achieve together.
Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation is proud to announce a new initiative in partnership with Sound of Change and Mark Stevens, launching an inspiring community project titled Play It Forward.
This initiative combines the strengths of sport, music, mentorship and storytelling to support young people across Bradford. By offering creative workshops, football sessions and lived-experience testimonies, Play It Forward is designed to help participants develop resilience, confidence and a stronger sense of belonging.
At its core, the project aims to address some of the biggest challenges facing young people today, including mental health pressures, social isolation and exposure to crime. Through creativity and sport, participants will learn to transform lived experiences into positive outcomes while building the skills to make confident, constructive life choices.
What Play It Forward Involves
Music & Storytelling Workshops – turning personal experiences into songs, poetry and spoken word.
Community Sports & Mentorship – using football and teamwork to encourage growth, leadership and self-belief.
Peer Testimonies – young people and mentors sharing stories of resilience and change.
Media & Content Creation – empowering participants to create and share positive messages through film and digital platforms.
Why It Matters
Play It Forward is more than a single event. It is designed as a catalyst for long-term change, showing young people that their voices matter and their challenges can be overcome. Participants will leave with stronger peer connections, new role models and practical tools to support their mental wellbeing.
Mathew Everett, Community Director, said: “This is an exciting and creative way to support young people in education with the resources and tools they need to improve mental health outcomes. By combining sport, music, and open discussion, we’re giving young people the chance to express themselves, build resilience, and feel a true sense of belonging. We’re delighted to partner with Mark and his team at Sound of Change and look forward to building a strong, long-term partnership.”
To get in touch with our Community Director Mat Everett, contact him on Mathew.Everett@bpafc.com
Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation is committed to combining sport with opportunity and community support — and Play It Forward is a clear example of that mission in action.
Bradford (Park Avenue) head into Bank Holiday Monday football on the back of an excellent 3–1 win over Dunston UTS at the Horsfall Community Stadium.
Marcus Carver’s first-half header, followed by quickfire second-half goals from Louie Chorlton and Charlie Winfield, gave Craig Elliott’s side their first league win of the season and extended their unbeaten run.
Attention now turns to Monday’s clash with Pontefract Collieries. Supporters should note that this fixture will not be played at Pontefract’s usual home ground. Instead, the match will take place at Ossett United’s Ingfield Stadium, Prospect Road, Ossett, WF5 9HL. Kick-off is at 3pm.
For those unable to make the journey, legendary commentator John Helm will provide full live coverage on AvenueOnAir. You can listen live at https://avenueonair.mixlr.com/
