Bala Town

Bala Town Football Club is a semi-professional football team based in Bala, Gwynedd, Wales. Founded in 1880, the club has a rich history and is one of the oldest football clubs in Wales. The team, also known as the Lakesiders, has its home ground at Maes Tegid, a stadium with a capacity of 3,000, located in the heart of the town.

Bala Town FC spent most of its early years in the Welsh football system, primarily in the Welsh National League (Wrexham Area). The club's fortunes began to change in the early 21st century when they gained promotion to the Cymru Alliance in 2004. After five successful seasons, they were promoted to the Welsh Premier League for the 2009-2010 season, marking a significant milestone in the club's history.

Since joining the top tier of Welsh football, Bala Town has established itself as a competitive force. The team achieved its highest league finish in the 2014-2015 season, securing second place in the Welsh Premier League. This success led to their first-ever qualification for the UEFA Europa League, a significant achievement for the club.

Bala Town FC's first major trophy came in the 2016-2017 season when they won the Welsh Cup, beating The New Saints 2-1 in the final. This victory once again secured their place in the UEFA Europa League for the following season.

The club's commitment to youth development is evident in its thriving academy system. Bala Town runs several youth teams, starting from under-8s through to under-19s, providing a pathway for local talent to progress into the senior team. The club's dedication to nurturing young talent has resulted in several academy graduates making their first-team debuts.

Bala Town FC is more than just a football club; it is a cornerstone of the local community. The club is deeply involved in numerous community initiatives, including school programs and charity events, reflecting its commitment to the people of Bala and the surrounding areas.

The club's colours are black and white, and their crest features a dragon, a symbol of Welsh heritage, and a football, representing the sport they play. The club's motto, "Ymlaen Y Bala" (Forward Bala), encapsulates their forward-thinking approach and ambition for future success.

In recent years, Bala Town FC has continued to build on its success, consistently finishing in the top half of the Welsh Premier League and regularly competing in European competitions. Despite the challenges faced by semi-professional clubs, Bala Town continues to punch above its weight, testament to the dedication and passion of its players, staff, and loyal supporters.