Guiseley AFC

Guiseley Association Football Club, commonly known as Guiseley AFC, is a semi-professional football club based in Guiseley, West Yorkshire, England. The club was established in 1909 and has a rich history spanning over a century.

Guiseley AFC plays its home games at Nethermoor Park, a stadium with a capacity of 4,000. The club’s colours are blue and white, and their nickname is "The Lions".

The club has spent the majority of its history in the lower tiers of the English football league system. However, the club has had its moments of glory, including a memorable run in the FA Cup during the 2017-2018 season, where they reached the second round before being defeated by Mansfield Town.

Guiseley AFC's most significant achievement came in the 2014-2015 season when they earned promotion to the National League, the fifth tier of English football, for the first time in their history. This was achieved after a thrilling playoff final victory over Chorley. However, their stay in the National League was short-lived as they were relegated back to the National League North after three seasons.

Despite the ups and downs, Guiseley AFC has remained a vital part of the local community. The club has a strong youth development program, with its academy regularly producing players who go on to play at a higher level. The club also runs a successful community program, which includes initiatives such as coaching in local schools and organising charity events.

Guiseley AFC has had several notable players and managers throughout its history. One of the most prominent figures associated with the club is Mark Bower, who had a successful stint as a player before taking over as manager. Under Bower's leadership, the club achieved its historic promotion to the National League.

The club's supporters are known for their passionate and loyal following. Despite the small size of the town, Guiseley AFC regularly attracts a respectable crowd to Nethermoor Park, especially for local derbies and important fixtures.

In recent years, Guiseley AFC has faced financial challenges, like many lower league clubs in England. However, the club's dedicated board, staff, and supporters have worked tirelessly to ensure its survival and sustainability.

In conclusion, Guiseley AFC may not be the most famous or successful club in English football, but it is a club with a proud history and a strong sense of community. The club's story is a testament to the passion and resilience of those involved in lower league football.