Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC are delighted to confirm the signing of experienced defender Danny Ellis, who joins the club as Player/Assistant Manager on a deal running until the end of the 2025/26 season.
A commanding centre-back and respected figure in non-league football, Danny brings with him a wealth of experience from a career that spans over 700 senior appearances and nearly two decades in the game.
A Bradford lad through and through, Danny began his footballing journey at Bradford City, where he spent eight years in the youth system before signing professional terms in 2005. After his release at 19, he joined Guiseley AFC, where he went on to make an incredible 473 appearances across a ten-year spell, helping the Lions win promotion from the Evo-Stik Premier Division to the National League North in 2010, and then into the National League in 2015.
In 2016, he made the move to Harrogate Town, spending two seasons with the Sulphurites before departing when the club transitioned to full-time status. He then joined Farsley Celtic in 2017 and continued his promotion-winning pedigree by playing a vital role in their Evo-Stik League title triumph in 2019. He was later appointed Assistant Manager at Farsley, holding the role for 18 months.
After leaving Farsley, Danny signed for Darlington, making his debut in a 3–0 win over AFC Telford United. Most recently, he featured for Liversedge, where he spent the past six months continuing to influence games at the back with his trademark composure and leadership.
Danny now takes up a dual role at Bradford (Park Avenue), adding strength to the defensive ranks while also stepping into a key leadership position alongside Head Coach Craig Elliott.
Elliott said:
“I have tried to sign Danny for a number of years. I’m delighted it’s finally the right time for both of us to make it happen. It seemed a perfect fit to bring him in, especially as a local Bradford lad and a well-respected character in non-league football.
“He will give us experience as a player when needed, and as an excellent coach will be a big asset to the club. We will be working hard together to create a strong team for next season.”Danny Ellis also had this to say on his signing:
“I’m obviously delighted to be able to come and both play and work for Bradford (Park Avenue). It’s a club I know well, being from Bradford, and one I’ve been very close to joining in the past.
Craig Elliott has done a great job in management — the success he’s had speaks for itself — so for me, this move was a no-brainer. We’ve had a lot of good conversations, and it’s clear we both share the same goals for this season.
I’m really looking forward to getting started and contributing to what we want to achieve.”
Danny’s leadership qualities, wealth of experience, and deep understanding of the game make him an exciting addition as we continue building toward a competitive 2025/26 campaign.
Welcome to the Avenue, Danny!