Former captain appointed Harrogate's first director of youth football

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Harrogate Town have appointed former captain Josh Falkingham as the club's first director of youth football.

The former midfielder will lead the overall youth football strategy, including player development centres and advanced level player development centres, following a restructure.

Falkingham retired from playing at the end of last season, having spent nine years at the club. He made 304 appearances.

During his time as a player, he worked on his coaching badges and managed the club's West Riding FA league title at youth level.

He will also take charge of the club’s newly created B team and the under-18s BTEC football academy, which is run in partnership with Rossett School.

Falkingham will be assisted by lead coach Tom Hullock in the management of both youth teams.

Hullock will also continue to lead the club’s under-16s side.

Ryan Smith continues his role as head of player development centres, overseeing more than 500 young footballers training each week with the club’s coaching team.

The club has introduced a new position to assist Smith, and its advanced player development centres will be headed up by former lead coach, Kevin Wilson.

With a wealth of experience as an ex-professional player for several clubs, including Chelsea, and as a scout, Wilson has spent the last season working with the club’s academy players, helping three scholars earn professional contracts.