With four teams playing every week in competitive BUCS leagues, UYAFC (University of York Association Football Club) is one of the biggest sporting clubs on campus as well as one of the biggest institutions at the university. The club is steeped in tradition and despite not being a renowned sporting university, football has always been taken seriously at York.
Last season was perhaps a disappointing one, something which will undoubtedly motivate the club for this year. Both the first and fourth teams were relegated, while the second team had a mediocre year finishing mid-table. The third team were the only team to really achieve anything, and even they ended the season disappointed after just missing out on promotion on the final day of the season due to goal difference. It was a similar story at Roses, with two defeats and a draw. Both first and second teams had decent cup runs, though, reaching the semi-finals in their respective competitions.
But UYAFC is determined to bounce back. For all four teams, but particularly the firsts, promotion is a must. In order to achieve this, the club is experiencing a bit of a shake-up, seeking to develop more professional attitudes both on and off the pitch. Training will now be twice a week plus an additional gym session as a club. To that end, the new facilities available at the York Sport Village will certainly be a huge benefit to all members.
Although promotion in BUCS is the top priority, UYAFC will be determined to build on the cup runs of last season and hopefully lift some silverware this year. On top of this, and new for this season, the club has entered a team into a Saturday league of local sides. This team will act as a great opportunity for fringe players who deserve the opportunity to prove themselves and perhaps earn their place in a higher team. Finally, after a disastrous time in Lancaster last year, UYAFC are keen to help York regain its Roses crown on home soil.
Freshers trials will be taking place every day during the first week of term (8th – 12th October) from 2pm until 4pm. Meet at the University Sports Centre, James College, at 1.45pm. Any fresher, second or third year, should come down and show what they can do. The club is always looking to strengthen itself with new blood, and if you are good enough, you will play.
Trials will involve small sided games allowing players to get more involved and show off their abilities. There will also be some sort of 11-a-side game at the weekend for the most promising talents on show. All details of trials will be on the Facebook event, so joining this is the best way to keep up to date.
UYAFC President Tom Day:
There is a great sense of optimism surrounding UYAFC this season. With the addition and utlisation of the new 3G pitch and York Sport Village facilities, the football club is more prepared than ever to write a successful season into its history illustrious books.