NPL EAST DIVISION ALLOCATIONS CONFIRMED!

posted in: First Team News, News | 0

The FA have today confirmed the club allocations for the 2025/26 Pitching In Northern Premier League East Division.

Blyth Spartans and Matlock Town drop down from the Premier Division.
Brighouse Town are reprieved following the withdrawal of Farsley Celtic, having the best record of the step 4 relegated sides.
Five new clubs arrive from Step 5:

  • Lincoln United
  • Blyth Town
  • Hallam
  • Redcar Athletic
  • Silsden

Here’s how the division lines up for the 2025/26 campaign:

Ashington, Bishop Auckland, Blyth Spartans, Blyth Town, Bradford (Park Avenue), Bridlington Town, Brighouse Town, Consett, Dunston, Emley, Garforth Town, Grimsby Borough, Hallam, Heaton Stannington, Lincoln United, Matlock Town, Newton Aycliffe, North Ferriby, Ossett United, Pontefract Collieries, Redcar Athletic, Silsden.

Bring on 2025/26 💚

Josh Ashman Returns to Horsfall for 2025/26 Season!

posted in: First Team News, News | 0

Bradford (Park Avenue) are pleased to confirm that central defender Josh Ashman has returned to the Horsfall ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The 21-year-old made a strong impression during the 2024/25 campaign, racking up 35 appearances and contributing three goals in green and white. He formed an effective partnership at the back, working well alongside the likes of Mark Beevers, and now returns for another season under Craig Elliott.

Ashman is no stranger to the Northern Premier League, having spent the 2023/24 season at Guiseley AFC following his release from Sheffield Wednesday, where he captained the Under-21 side. A brief spell with Matlock Town followed in mid-2024, before he re-signed with Avenue in time for pre-season preparations.

Josh began his footballing journey with Sheffield Rangers before progressing through the Qualitas private academy and Sheffield Schoolboys, where he was spotted by Wednesday. Joining the Owls at 14, he developed through the ranks, signed a professional contract, and captained their Under-21 squad prior to moving into senior football.

Craig Elliott:

“Josh is a player who has faced challenges but has shown resilience and determination. His background at Sheffield Wednesday and experience in the Northern Premier League will be invaluable to us. We’re excited to have him back onboard.”

We look forward to seeing Josh in action once again throughout the 2025/26 campaign.

Danny Ellis Joins as Player/Assistant Manager

posted in: First Team News, News | 0

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!

AveyFest Awards Day – Saturday 17th May

Join us for a fantastic celebration as we round off another incredible season at Bradford (Park Avenue) with our AveyFest Awards Day. Taking place on Saturday 17th May, the day is packed with activities for all ages, live entertainment, and the presentation of end-of-season awards.

Event Highlights:

  • Live Music from 1:30 PM to 8:00 PM
  • Goal Mouth Activities from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • Ronnie the Ram Penalty Shootout from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
  • End-of-Season Presentations running from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
  • Half-Pitch Free Play (3v3 pitches) available from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
  • 5-a-Side Matches for Parents & Fans from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM (£5 per player)

We’re calling on parents, coaches, supporters, and family members to get involved – whether you’re a mum, dad, coach, grandparent or lifelong fan, you’re welcome to take part in the fun.

The Clubhouse, Green-Army Café, and Tuck Shop will be open throughout the event serving food and refreshments.

To register for the Parents & Fans 5-a-Side or for more information, please contact:
Gary Ratnik – Gary.Ratnik@bpafc.com

We look forward to seeing you there for a fantastic day of football, fun and celebration.

Match Report: Bradford (Park Avenue) 4–4 Leeds United (NFYL Division 1 Final Match)

posted in: Academy News, News | 0

Match Report provided by Charlie Fawcett

Bradford (Park Avenue)’s youngsters concluded a fantastic NFYL Division 1 campaign on Tuesday afternoon, sitting proudly at the top of the table. However, a few dropped points from teams around them have left the title race wide open.

In what was a thrilling and tightly contested encounter, both sides hit the net four times, with Avenue having to dig deep to salvage a well-earned point.

It was the visitors who opened the scoring early at a sun-soaked Horsfall Community Stadium. A well-worked Leeds United move was initially denied by Olly Farrar, but the young Whites reacted quickest to the rebound and tapped home to make it 1–0.

A flurry of Avenue chances soon followed. A foul on Oliver Madunicky just outside the penalty area resulted in a free-kick, despite strong protests from the Leeds defence. Josh Owen stepped up confidently and curled a low shot into the bottom-left corner – a finish matched by a lively celebration, complete with gun fingers.

As the first half wore on, BPA began to dominate. Madunicky was again brought down in the box, but the referee remained unmoved amid strong penalty appeals. He then forced a save from distance with a well-struck effort, but the goalkeeper gathered with ease.

Just before the drinks break, a long ball from Leeds caught the Avenue defence out and was clinically finished to restore the visitors’ lead heading into half-time.

Half-Time: Bradford (Park Avenue) 1–2 Leeds United

The second half began much like the first – with Leeds adding a third. A low-driven cross somehow made its way into the net, and Avenue found themselves two goals down and with work to do.

But the response was immediate and full of character.

First, a long throw into the Leeds box caused chaos, and Dylan Wellock headed home from close range to make it 3–2. Moments later, Jayden Bedeau nodded in from a swift restart, levelling the game at 3–3 and sparking wild celebrations from the Avenue players.

BPA were firmly on the front foot and pushing for a winner. Their pressure was rewarded when a foul on Josh Owen resulted in a penalty. Bedeau stepped up and calmly slotted his second of the game into the bottom-left corner, giving Avenue the lead for the first time at 4–3.

But there was one final twist. Leeds took a short corner, and their No.7 produced an unorthodox finish that somehow beat the defence, levelling the match once more.

As the final whistle blew, Park Avenue’s players were left with mixed emotions – pride in their fightback, but disappointment that the win slipped away. With just a two-point lead at the top and other sides holding games in hand, the title race is set for a dramatic finale.

Full-Time: Bradford (Park Avenue) 4–4 Leeds United (NFYL Division 1)

Full Video Diary – The Dales Way in Memory of John Ratnik

After an incredible journey across The Dales Way, we’re proud to share the full video diary of Gary, Tina, and Kobie’s walk in memory of John Ratnik.

Through rain, wind, and tough climbs, they showed amazing strength and spirit — and thanks to your support, they’ve raised over £3,900 for Marie Curie Cancer Research, the Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation, and the Bradford Schools Football Association.

Let’s help them hit their final goal of £5,000! Every donation counts. 🙌

👉 Watch the full journey here: https://youtu.be/o0SNuEGpS50
👉 Donate now: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/gary-ratnik?utm_term=pK8rgpqvY

Thank you for supporting this special tribute to John Ratnik. 💚

£5 ADULTS, £1 U18S FOR OUR FINAL MATCH OF THE 24/25 SEASON!

posted in: First Team News, News | 0

Today, Saturday, 26th April 2025, we’re taking on Ashington AFC at Horsfall Community Stadium! It’s our final match of the season, and we’re looking to finish strong as we build towards next season’s promotion!

🏟️ Match Details:

  • Kickoff: 3:00 PM
  • Admission: £5 for Adults, £1 for U18s
  • 🍻 Happy Hour: Pre-match 2-3 PM & Post-match 5-6 PM – enjoy pints at discounted prices!
  • 🎶 Live Music: From Good Question at 6 PM
  • 🏆 End of Season Awards: 6:45 PM – Let’s celebrate the season’s achievements!

🎟️ Get your tickets now: https://app.fanbaseclub.com/Fan/Tickets/SelectType?fixtureId=8660

Already purchased your Early Bird Season Ticket for 2025/26? You can pick it up at the gate! Haven’t grabbed yours yet? We’ll be open from 1 PM today for new purchases.

Let’s pack the stadium and finish the season on a high, Green Army! We can’t wait to see you there! 💚

Season Tickets Available This Week at Horsfall – Open from 1pm Until 8:30pm

posted in: First Team News, News | 0

Season tickets for the 2025/26 season are available to purchase or collect in person this week at the Horsfall Community Stadium.

We are open from 1pm until 8:30pm on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, and you can pay by cash or card. Head up the yellow stairs to the Horsfall offices once you’re here. Once purchased, your ticket will be printed there and then for immediate collection. You can also purchase online and collect same day from the stadium.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact our Club Operations Manager at Thomas.Ogden@bpafc.com.

Thank you for your support – we look forward to seeing you at Horsfall.

BRADFORD (PARK AVENUE) JOIN ROTARY BRADFORD WEST TO PROMOTE POLIO AWARENESS MATCH IN HONOUR OF JEFF HALL

Bradford (Park Avenue) were honoured to be invited to speak at Rotary Bradford West this afternoon, as part of the build-up to Saturday’s Jeff Hall Polio Awareness Match at the Horsfall Community Stadium.

Representing the club were Sporting & Executive Director Thomas McStravick, Community Director Mathew Everett, and Emma Miller – the great-niece of Jeff Hall and a great friend of the club. Emma gave a heartfelt tribute to Jeff, whose untimely passing from polio at the age of 29 had a profound impact on public health in the UK, spurring a nationwide push for vaccination.

Jeff Hall began his playing career with Avenue Reserves, before going on to represent Birmingham City and the England national team, earning 17 international caps. His legacy continues to inspire, and Saturday’s match is dedicated to honouring that legacy.

The day is being held in partnership with the British Polio Fellowship, and proceeds from the bucket collections will support the charity’s vital work with those affected by polio across the UK.

The session with Rotary Bradford West also allowed us to share updates from across the club, including the work of the Bradford (Park Avenue) Sports Foundation, our expanding Football Education Programme, and the introduction of a brand-new HNC/HND Sports Course, giving young people more pathways into sport and higher education.

🎟️ Tickets for the match are available here:
👉 https://app.fanbaseclub.com/Fan/Tickets/SelectType?fixtureId=8659
🔗 Learn more about Rotary Bradford West:
👉 https://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/homepage.php?ClubID=184

We’re proud to work alongside our local community and thank Rotary Bradford West for their warm welcome and support in championing such an important cause.

Bradford #ParkAvenue #GreenArmy

Jeff Hall Polio Awareness Day – Bradford (Park Avenue) vs Grimsby Borough

📅 Saturday 19th April 2025
3:00PM Kick-Off
📍 Horsfall Community Stadium, BD6 2NG
🆚 Bradford (Park Avenue) vs Grimsby Borough
🎟 Click here for tickets – online discounts available only

This Saturday, Bradford (Park Avenue) returns home to Horsfall Community Stadium for a special occasion as we take on Grimsby Borough in what promises to be an emotional and meaningful afternoon.

The match will be dedicated to Jeff Hall Polio Awareness Day, in memory of a true footballing great who began his career at Bradford (Park Avenue) before going on to play for Birmingham City and England.

66 years ago this month, Jeff tragically passed away at just 29 from polio. His death shocked the nation and led to a massive increase in public awareness and vaccine uptake, saving countless lives. Jeff’s story is not just part of football history — it’s a vital chapter in public health history too.

We are proud to be partnering with the British Polio Fellowship to raise awareness of polio and Post Polio Syndrome (PPS) — a condition still affecting thousands of people in the UK today.

💚 There will be a minute of reflection ahead of kick-off and opportunities to learn more about the lasting effects of polio, along with ways you can support the ongoing work of the British Polio Fellowship.

🎟 Tickets are available online at discounted rates:

  • Adults – £10
  • Concessions – £8
  • Students, Blue Light, Armed Forces – £5
  • Youth (12–17) – £3
  • Juniors (U12) – £1

Please note: discounted prices are available online only. Standard prices apply at the gate.
👉 Book your tickets here

We encourage all supporters to come down, wear green, and help us honour the legacy of Jeff Hall — a footballer, a pioneer, and a hero to many.

#JeffHall #PolioAwareness #BritishPolioFellowship #GreenArmy #BPAvGB #NonLeagueFootball #PPSAwareness #WeAreAvenue