FC Farsley is set to kick off its new season, just nine months after former Premier League goalkeeper David Stockdale acquired its debt-ridden predecessor, Farsley Celtic. Stockdale, who completed the takeover in December before establishing FC Farsley, has been involved in extensive rebuilding, rebranding, and renovating efforts.
The transformation has been a family affair, with three generations of the Stockdale family contributing to the club's revival. Stockdale's father, David, a painter and decorator by trade, has helped with various areas, while his mother, Pauline, and children, Billy, Molly, and Daisy, have also been involved in tasks ranging from cutting grass to running club activities.
The club's ground will once again be known as Throstle Nest, and the team will return to its traditional blue colours. FC Farsley's men's first match will be an away game against South Leeds Reserves on Wednesday 12 August in the Yorkshire Amateur League Supreme Division, the 11th tier of English football.
Stockdale is hopeful that new 3G artificial turf can be laid at Throstle Nest next year. The club also aims to develop its academy, with a vision to see players progress from its 'Little Lambs' programme, which starts as young as 18 months old, all the way to the first team.