Scholars Begin Pre-Season with Impressive Win Over Hartlepool

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Bradford (Park Avenue)’s Scholars opened their pre-season campaign with a confident 3-1 victory over Hartlepool United, in a performance that combined structure, pressing, and clinical finishing.

Goals from Rico Feltham and a brace from David Nsingi saw Avenue’s academy side start their summer preparations on the front foot.

Reflecting on the match, Academy Manager Owen Murphy praised both the result and the effort on show, especially given the mixed group involved due to player unavailability:

“Today’s game against Hartlepool was our first outing this pre-season for the academy. We put out a mixed group of players due to some being away on holiday. Hartlepool were a good footballing side which proved a tough test for the boys, but a test they came through very well.”

Murphy highlighted the players’ off-season commitment, with many already active through involvement in the reserves or at external semi-professional clubs. Despite Hartlepool’s early control of possession, Avenue’s Scholars were solid out of possession and difficult to break down.

The opening goal came via midfielder Rico Feltham, whose finish capitalised on structured play and effective pressing. The second goal followed shortly after the break, as David Nsingi forced a turnover and finished well to double the lead.

Although Hartlepool pulled one back after a defensive lapse, Nsingi restored the two-goal cushion with a standout strike from distance to round off a strong individual display.

“After this the game was done and the lads showed great maturity in managing the game,” Murphy added. “Overall I’m really happy with today’s performance as it’s something we can build on for next week.”

The Scholars continue pre-season preparations next week with momentum and confidence on their side following this positive start.

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TOM BANKS MEMORIAL TROPHY RETURNS AS AVENUE HOST BRADFORD CITY XI

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Bradford (Park Avenue) welcome a Bradford City XI to the Horsfall Stadium on Tuesday 29th July (7:00pm KO) for the latest edition of the Tom Banks Memorial Trophy – a fixture that honours one of the club’s most dedicated supporters.

The match, which serves as Avenue’s final pre-season outing ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, will see the winner lift a trophy that holds great sentimental value within the club’s history.

Who Was Tom Banks?
Tom Banks was a lifelong Bradford (Park Avenue) supporter, following the club passionately for 54 years up to their demise in 1974. A committed fan and tireless fundraiser, Tom remained a key figure around the club during its most difficult periods and played a role in supporting Avenue’s eventual reformation.

In the mid-1990s, Tom’s son Roger — himself a long-standing Avenue supporter — and Tom’s brother proposed the idea of a memorial trophy in his name. Over 30 years later, the Tom Banks Memorial Trophy continues to be contested in his memory, providing a meaningful connection between the club’s past and present.

A Final Test Before the Season Begins
Tuesday’s clash will give supporters a final opportunity to see Craig Elliott’s squad in action before the new season begins on Saturday 2nd August, when Avenue host Mossley in the Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round.

Avenue come into the game following a strong 2-1 win over Guiseley on Saturday, with goals from Charlie Winfield and Prince Ekpolo securing the victory in a competitive encounter at the Horsfall.

Manager Craig Elliott was full of praise for his side, saying:

“Really good friendly again – good tempo, felt like a proper league game. Guiseley have got some fantastic players, so to win tonight, I’m really happy and just happy with what we got out of the game.”

Elliott is hopeful of building on that performance in Tuesday’s derby fixture, before shifting full focus to the competitive campaign.

“I’ve just said to the players – lots of positives. We’re in a good place. Now it’s just about getting everyone back fit and ready, and doing a bit more in training before we start the real stuff.”


🎟 Match Details:
Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC vs Bradford City XI
🏆 Tom Banks Memorial Trophy
📅 Tuesday 29th July
🕖 7:00pm Kick-Off
📍 Horsfall Stadium, BD6 2NG
💷 £5 Adults/Concessions | £1 U18s

🎫 Buy online in advance and scan straight through the gate:
👉 Click here for tickets
Pay on the gate also available.

Join us for a special night as we remember a club legend and gear up for the season ahead.

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Reserves Earn Deserved Win Under the Lights at Horsfall

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Bradford (Park Avenue) Reserves 2–1 South Leeds
Scorers: Rico Feltham, Michael Douglas
📍 Horsfall Community Stadium
📅 Friday 19 July 2025

Bradford (Park Avenue) Reserves secured a deserved 2-1 victory over South Leeds last Friday night in an impressive pre-season performance at the Horsfall Community Stadium.

Goals from Rico Feltham and Michael Douglas ensured a dominant display was rewarded with a result that reflected the team’s efforts — and Reserves Manager Owen Murphy was full of praise for his young side.

“Friday night’s result was one we fully deserved,” said Murphy. “So far in pre-season we’ve been on the wrong end of results despite strong performances – barring the Emley game – but this was a different story.

From the first whistle, I felt we controlled the game and were very aggressive, which helped us get on the front foot early. The maturity in the performance really stood out, especially considering how young this team is.”

The Reserves showed their intent from the off, pressing well and moving the ball quickly to dictate the tempo. Their shape, discipline, and execution in and out of possession were key to the result — something Murphy credits to the group’s work in training.

“We played out when needed and did it at pace, and when we had to go long, we did it with precision and had direct runners to get us up the pitch. That’s something I’ve been drilling into the lads from our very first session, so it’s great to see it come together.

On Tuesday in training, we worked hard on how we want to set up out of possession, so I was really pleased with how difficult we were to break down and how few chances we gave away.”

With just one more friendly fixture remaining before the season opener, Murphy sees the performance as a strong indicator of the group’s progress and readiness for the campaign ahead.

“We’ve got one more friendly this Friday – another tough test – and it’s our final chance to get things right before the season opener. Overall, I’m really happy with Friday night’s win and performance. We’re moving in the right direction, and the players are fully on board with how we want to play and the path we’re on.”

The Reserves are back in action this Friday 1st August, taking on Gomersal Cleckheaton at Horsfall Stadium, with kick-off at 7:30pm.

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Bradford (Park Avenue) Welcome Two US Clubs to Horsfall for International Friendlies

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Bradford (Park Avenue) were proud to host two visiting football clubs from the United States this week, welcoming Hoover Vestavia Soccer from Birmingham, Alabama on Wednesday 23rd July, and Lions Futball Club from San Antonio, Texas on Thursday 24th July, for a series of friendly matches and cultural exchange at the Horsfall Community Stadium.

Both tours were arranged in partnership with Amazing Sports Tours, giving young American players the opportunity to test themselves against UK sides and experience life at a historic English football club.

We caught up with Pete Kenyon, our Commercial Director, and Tomas Fox from Hoover Vestavia Soccer to reflect on their visit.

“We’ve travelled from Birmingham, Alabama. Our club is Hoover Vestavia Soccer,” said Tomas.
“First of all, thank you so much for hosting us — it’s been an amazing experience. What you have here is really special.

There’s clearly a lot of history at this club, great habits, and the facilities are outstanding. Back home, it’s something we dream about having access to. So, congratulations — it’s really impressive.”

Tomas also praised the standard of the football:

“The games today were very good. We’ve played three matches so far on the trip, and being able to play two more strong games here has been a great opportunity. We’re very grateful.”

Pete Kenyon added:

“It’s brilliant when we can welcome people from the other side of the world to Park Avenue. Showing off our facilities, making visitors feel welcome — it’s what this club is about.

It also gives us a chance to share the history and tradition of Bradford (Park Avenue) with those who might not otherwise know our story. Long may these kinds of visits continue.”

The following day, Lions Futball Club visited from Texas, joined by Head Coach Peter Moore and Dave Shepard, Managing Director of Amazing Sports Tours.

“We’ve come from San Antonio, Texas,” Peter said. “The girls’ team we played against today was excellent — they had some real quality.

We had a poor first half, but the second half was much better. The girls showed great character to turn things around and put in a strong performance.”

Pete Kenyon again highlighted the value of these exchanges:

“It’s fantastic to see different cultures come through our gates. We hosted an American team yesterday, and another one today — both were very talented and a credit to their clubs.

I’m sure they’ve enjoyed the Horsfall and what we have to offer, and they’re welcome back any time.”

To round off the day, Dave Shepard praised what he saw:

“It’s been a brilliant experience — not just the football, but everything around it. The setup here is superb, and it’s clear how much the club has progressed. It’s really impressive.”

We’d like to thank Hoover Vestavia Soccer, Lions Futball Club, Dave Shepard and Amazing Sports Tours for choosing to visit Bradford (Park Avenue). It’s been a pleasure to host them, and we look forward to more international connections as we continue to grow our reach through the power of football.

Watch all the interviews on the video below.

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Coach Travel to Matlock – Subsidised by the BPA Development Fund!

We’re running coach travel for our first league fixture of the 2025/26 season away at Matlock Town on Saturday 9th August (3:00pm KO) – and thanks to the fantastic backing of the BPA Development Fund, we’re able to offer subsidised prices for supporters!

💚 Subsidised Prices:
• Adults – £15
• U17s – £10

📧 To reserve your place, email: Pete.Kenyon@bpafc.com

🚍 Pick-up Points:
Horsfall Stadium
Cedar Court Hotel, Bradford
The Red Kite, Calder Grove (Junction 39, M1) – approx. 20–25 minutes after leaving Bradford

🙏 A huge thank you to the BPA Development Fund for their continued support in helping to grow the Avenue – both on and off the pitch.

Let’s get the Green Army on the road in strong numbers to back the lads at Matlock!

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NEXT TUESDAY: Avenue Host Bradford City XI in Final Pre-Season Clash

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Bradford (Park Avenue) return to action next Tuesday evening as they welcome a Bradford City XI to the Horsfall Stadium for their final pre-season friendly before the new campaign kicks off. The annual match will be for the Tom Banks Memorial Trophy.

📅 Tuesday 29th July 2025
🕖 Kick-off: 7:00PM
📍 Horsfall Stadium, BD6 2NG
🎟️ £5 Adults | £1 U18s
🎫 Tickets available now via Fanbase

Craig Elliott’s side come into the match following a positive 2-1 win over Guiseley on Saturday, with goals from Charlie Winfield and Prince Ekpolo sealing the result in a competitive fixture that provided another strong workout for the squad.

Reflecting on the game, First Team Manager Craig Elliott said:

“Really good friendly again – good tempo, felt like a proper league game. Guiseley have got some fantastic players, so to win tonight, I’m really happy and just happy with what we got out of the game.”

Tuesday’s fixture will offer a final opportunity for supporters to see the squad in action before the 2025/26 season officially begins. Avenue kick off their competitive campaign at home to Mossley in the Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round on Saturday 2nd August.

“I’ve just said to the players – lots of positives. We’re in a good place. Now it’s just about getting everyone back from holidays, fit and ready, and doing a bit more in training before we start the real stuff.”

Don’t miss your chance to back the lads one last time before the competitive action begins!

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Double Matchday at Horsfall Today!

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Bradford (Park Avenue) fans are in for a full day of football today, as both our First Team and Reserves are in action at the Horsfall Community Stadium.

The day kicks off at 1:00pm, with the First Team welcoming Folkestone Invicta for the latest fixture in our 2025/26 pre-season schedule. After a solid performance in midweek, Craig Elliott’s side will be looking to build further momentum with another strong showing on home soil.

Entry for the match is completely FREE, so we’re encouraging the Green Army to turn out in force and get behind the lads.

The action doesn’t stop there – at 4:00pm, our Reserves take to the pitch against Emley U23s. Owen Murphy’s squad continues its preparations for the upcoming campaign, and tomorrow’s test promises to offer another good challenge for the developing side.

The bar will be open throughout the day, with plenty of opportunity to enjoy a drink while taking in both matches. Whether you’re coming for one game or making a full day of it, we’d love to see you at Horsfall.

With two matches, free entry, and a great atmosphere on offer, it’s set to be a fantastic day out for fans of all ages.

Saturday 19th July – Matchday Schedule:
🕐 1:00pm – First Team vs Folkestone Invicta
🕓 4:00pm – Reserves vs Emley U23s

Come and spend your Saturday with us at the Horsfall – and enjoy a brilliant day of football with the Green Army!

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Breaking Barriers: BPA Sports Foundation & Rotary Empower Local Youth in Anti-Knife Crime Intervention

On July 1st, 2025, the Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation welcomed seventeen Year 6 pupils from three local primary schools to Horsfall Community Stadium for the first in a series of powerful anti-knife crime intervention events—part of our Breaking Barriers initiative.

Driven by growing concerns around youth violence, gang involvement, and misinformation online, Breaking Barriers is a collaborative response rooted in education, empathy, and prevention. The one-day intervention was designed to reach children before they encounter pressure or exposure to harmful choices, offering them positive alternatives and informed perspectives.

Each pupil received a bespoke invitation styled as a matchday ticket—bringing with it a sense of occasion, pride, and belonging. That simple gesture reflected what this programme is all about: creating safe, inspiring spaces where young people feel seen, valued, and heard.

The event was led by our own Community Director Mat Everett and Education Consultant Anne Seneviratne, with support from West Yorkshire Police, NHS staff, and former gang members who now work to prevent others from making the same mistakes. The immersive experience included:

  • A simulated crime scene investigation led by West Yorkshire Police, helping pupils understand the real-life consequences of violent crime.
  • A powerful session with NHS trauma specialists, offering an unfiltered look into the harsh realities of knife-related injuries and emergency care.
  • A heartfelt testimony from Daryl, a reformed ex-gang member, whose personal story of violence, remorse, and transformation left a lasting impression on everyone in the room.

Inspector Adam Beecroft of Bradford South Police, who was instrumental in securing funding for this initiative, attended and supported the event. His insight and leadership have been key to making this project possible.

The day was rounded off with positive, reflective activities designed to build resilience and connection. Through team sports, structured discussion, and active listening, pupils were given space to process what they had seen and heard in a safe and supportive environment.

This was not about fear—it was about truth, empowerment, and providing young people with the tools to make informed, safer decisions.

As Mat Everett put it:

“We’re not just telling young people what not to do—we’re showing them why, through real stories and real people. This is about equipping them to make positive choices based on understanding and empathy.”

With social media often glamorising knife culture, Breaking Barriers works to rebalance the narrative. Many pupils arrived with misconceptions about violence; they left with clarity, respect for consequences, and a renewed sense of self-worth. As one pupil told us:

“We’ve learnt that carrying knives is bad for the future generation, in public. Even a small cut can do a lot of harm.”

This is just the beginning. Breaking Barriers will continue throughout the year with three further events planned. The Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation is actively seeking new partnerships and funding to ensure we can reach even more young people across our community. We made a short video which is viewable below, talking to some of those involved in the event.

YouTube player

We extend our heartfelt thanks to West Yorkshire Police, the NHS team, Daryl for his courage, and particularly to Inspector Adam Beecroft for his dedication and belief in the project.

Together, we are breaking barriers—one life at a time.

Let’s keep going.

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Updated Admission Prices for 2025/26

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You voiced your opinions – and we have listened!

As we prepare for an exciting 2025/26 season at the Horsfall Community Stadium, we’re pleased to confirm our updated Pay on the Gate (POTG) admission prices. These changes reflect our continued commitment to making football affordable and accessible for all across Bradford.

New Admission Prices for 2025/26:

  • Adults (18+): £10
  • Blue Light Card Holders, Armed Forces & Students: £5
  • Youth (12–17): £3
  • Juniors (Under-12): £1

These prices apply both on the gate and online via Fanbase, giving supporters the flexibility to buy tickets in the way that suits them best.

Our Early Bird Season Ticket window has now closed, and we are proud to share that 256 season tickets were sold across all categories. A huge thank you to every supporter who secured theirs early — your commitment means the world to us.

Official matchday programmes for all Northern Premier League, FA Cup, and FA Trophy fixtures will be priced at £3 and sold exclusively in the Clubhouse on matchdays.

Please be aware that pre-season friendlies, FA Cup, and FA Trophy matches are not included in season tickets. Admission prices for these fixtures will be announced closer to the respective dates.

Whether you’re renewing, returning, or making your first trip to the Horsfall — now is the time to get behind your local club. Every voice in the crowd makes a difference, and we can’t wait to welcome you for another unforgettable season.

📧 Questions? Contact: Thomas.Ogden@bpafc.com

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2025/26 Fixtures are out!

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The Green Army will kick things off with an FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round tie at home to Mossley on Saturday 2nd August at 3:00pm, before travelling to Matlock Town a week later for our opening league fixture.

All Kick Off times are subject to change

AUGUST

Sat 2 – Mossley (H) – FA Cup EP3:00pm
Sat 9 – Matlock Town (A) – 3:00pm
Tue 12 – Emley (H) – 7:45pm
Tue 19 – Hallam (A) – 7:45pm
Sat 23 – Dunston (H) – 3:00pm
Mon 25 – Pontefract Collieries (A) – Bank Holiday3:00pm
Sat 30 – Grimsby Borough (H) – 3:00pm

SEPTEMBER

Sat 6 – Redcar Athletic (H) – FA Trophy 1Q3:00pm
Sat 13 – Blyth Spartans (A) – 3:00pm
Sat 20 – Lincoln United (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 27 – Bridlington Town (A) – 3:00pm

OCTOBER

Sat 4 – Ashington (H) – 3:00pm
Tue 7 – North Ferriby (H) – 7:45pm
Sat 11 – Blyth Town (A) – 3:00pm
Tue 14 – Silsden (A) – 7:45pm
Sat 18 – Heaton Stannington (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 25 – Newton Aycliffe (A) – 3:00pm

NOVEMBER

Sat 1 – Garforth Town (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 8 – Redcar Athletic (A) – 3:00pm
Sat 15 – Consett (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 22 – Ossett United (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 29 – Bishop Auckland (A) – 3:00pm

DECEMBER

Sat 6 – Blyth Spartans (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 13 – Lincoln United (A) – 3:00pm
Sat 20 – Emley (A) – 3:00pm
Fri 26 – Pontefract Collieries (H) – Boxing Day3:00pm

JANUARY

Thu 1 – Brighouse Town (A) – New Year’s Day3:00pm
Sat 10 – Matlock Town (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 17 – Ashington (A) – 3:00pm
Sat 24 – Bridlington Town (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 31 – North Ferriby (A) – 3:00pm

FEBRUARY

Sat 7 – Blyth Town (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 14 – Heaton Stannington (A) – 3:00pm
Sat 21 – Silsden (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 28 – Consett (A) – 3:00pm

MARCH

Sat 7 – Newton Aycliffe (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 14 – Garforth Town (A) – 3:00pm
Sat 21 – Redcar Athletic (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 28 – Hallam (H) – 3:00pm

APRIL

Sat 4 – Dunston (A) – 3:00pm
Mon 6 – Brighouse Town (H) – Easter Monday3:00pm
Sat 11 – Grimsby Borough (A) – 3:00pm
Sat 18 – Bishop Auckland (H) – 3:00pm
Sat 25 – Ossett United (A) – 3:00pm

We can’t wait to see you all at the Horsfall and on the road throughout what promises to be an unforgettable season.

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