AFC Fylde: A Comprehensive Guide to the Club's History, Successes, and Future

Introduction

AFC Fylde is a professional football club based in Kirkham, Lancashire, England. The club was formed in 1988 and currently competes in the National League North. AFC Fylde has enjoyed a remarkable rise through the non-league pyramid, winning numerous titles and becoming a force to be reckoned with in recent years.

History

Early Years (1988-2003)

AFC Fylde was founded in 1988 as Kirkham & Wesham, a merger between Kirkham Town and Wesham. The club began its journey in the West Lancashire League Division Two, the lowest level of the English football pyramid. Over the next few years, Kirkham & Wesham steadily climbed through the divisions, reaching the North West Counties League Division One in 2003.

Change of Name and Promotion (2003-2008)

In 2003, the club changed its name to AFC Fylde. The following season, the Coasters won the North West Counties League Division One title, earning promotion to the Northern Premier League Division One North. In 2008, AFC Fylde clinched the Northern Premier League Division One North title, securing promotion to the Northern Premier League Premier Division.

National League Success (2008-2020)

AFC Fylde's success continued in the Northern Premier League Premier Division. The club won the Challenge Cup in 2012 and 2014 and the President's Cup in 2015. In 2017, AFC Fylde clinched the Northern Premier League Premier Division title, earning promotion to the National League North.

In the National League North, AFC Fylde continued to impress. The club won the play-offs in 2019 and clinched the National League North title in 2020. This historic achievement saw AFC Fylde promoted to the National League, the fifth tier of English football.

Current Status

AFC Fylde currently competes in the National League. The club has established itself as a mid-table side, consistently finishing in the top half of the league. In recent seasons, AFC Fylde has reached the FA Cup first round on multiple occasions and has also competed in the FA Trophy.

Honors

• Northern Premier League Premier Division: 2017
• Northern Premier League Division One North: 2008
• North West Counties League Division One: 2003
• Challenge Cup: 2012, 2014
• President's Cup: 2015

Key Figures

• Manager: James Rowe
• Chairman: David Barron
• Top Scorer All-Time: Danny Rowe (156 goals)

Facilities

AFC Fylde plays its home matches at Mill Farm. The stadium has a capacity of 6,000 and is considered one of the best non-league stadiums in England. Mill Farm also hosts other events, such as concerts and community gatherings.

Supporters

AFC Fylde has a passionate and dedicated fanbase. The club has a number of supporters' groups, including the Coasters Supporters' Association and the Fylde Coast Youth Supporters. The supporters are known for their vocal and passionate support, both home and away.

Community Involvement

AFC Fylde is committed to playing an active role in the local community. The club runs a number of community programs, including:**

• Soccer Schools for children of all ages
• First-team player visits to local schools
• Coaching courses for aspiring coaches

AFC Fylde also works closely with local charities and organizations to support a variety of causes, such as youth development and health initiatives.

Conclusion

AFC Fylde is a vibrant and successful football club with a rich history and a bright future. The club has achieved remarkable success in recent years and continues to strive for even greater heights. AFC Fylde is a source of pride for the Fylde coast community and is committed to providing a positive and exciting experience for its supporters, players, and staff.