At Chorlton High School on Sunday morning West Didsbury & Chorlton’s Women’s team took their first steps of their existence with their first ever training session.

Despite the searing heat, even in the early morning, and the lure of Father’s Day, the calibre of players looking to make Paul Caddick’s new squad was strong.

There were some familiar faces in attendance with the bulk of Chorltonian Ladies forming the group, having already had one fitness session in the week, and spirits were high in a session led by former reserve team coach Chris Hames; now of Sheffield FC’s WSL Development side.

The session was observed by Club Secretary Rob McKay who added: “A year’s worth of work has gone into getting to this point and I’m really delighted that so many players have turned out. Caddy did an amazing job last season with virtually no resources and with the infrastructure the club is hoping to provide to its women’s team I’m confident that his most successful years are still ahead of him.”

“I’d also like to extend a huge thank you to Chris Hames who offered to come down and support the session; Chris is our former reserve and youth team coach but has gone onto Sheffield FC and to coaching their WSL Development side. From day one he’s always been a coach of some potential and we’re delighted for the players that they’ve been able to receive the benefit of one of his sessions.”

Having seen West Women’s team kick their first ball the Secretary was keen to stress of the work still ahead; “We thankful to our new sponsors in Piccadilly Records, Chorlton Reds and Truth for agreeing to help us in our new venture but we now need to repay that faith on the field.”

“We’ve a huge season ahead in a really competitive division with five or six teams capable of competing at the top end of it. We know that we’ve got the ability to compete with those sides but need to ensure that we back this up with work-rate and commitment. I know the players are capable of this and I’m confident that we’ve got an exciting season ahead.”

West Women’s first game of pre-season sees them travel to the Eddie Davis Academy where they take on Bolton Lads & Girls who recently lifted the GMWFL Division One Cup at Brookburn Road against Didsbury.

Before then, West will be holding a second open training session this Sunday at Chorlton High School, 10am. For anyone interested please get in touch via email robmckay86@gmail.com