Harrogate Town

Harrogate Town Association Football Club is a professional football club based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England. The club was established in 1914 and has since grown to become one of the most respected clubs in the lower tiers of English football.

Harrogate Town's journey through the football pyramid has been a story of steady progress. The club spent much of its early history in local and regional leagues, including the Yorkshire League and the Northern Counties East League. It was not until 2002 that the club gained promotion to the National League North, the sixth tier of English football, where they remained for over a decade.

The club's fortunes began to change in the 2010s under the leadership of manager Simon Weaver. In the 2017-2018 season, Harrogate Town achieved promotion to the National League, the fifth tier of English football, for the first time in their history. This was followed by another promotion in the 2019-2020 season, which saw the club reach the English Football League (EFL) for the first time.

Harrogate Town's debut season in the EFL was marked by a historic victory in the FA Trophy, a competition for teams in the lower tiers of English football. This victory, coupled with a mid-table finish in the league, marked a successful first season in professional football for the club.

The club's home ground is the EnviroVent Stadium, formerly known as Wetherby Road. The stadium has a capacity of just under 5,000 and has been the club's home since its foundation. The ground has undergone significant renovations in recent years, including the installation of a 3G artificial pitch, which has allowed the club to host a wider range of community and sporting events.

Harrogate Town's colours are black and yellow, and their nickname is "The Sulphurites", a reference to the town's famous sulphur springs. The club's crest features a white rose, the symbol of Yorkshire, and a football, symbolising the club's sporting purpose.

Despite its relatively small size, Harrogate Town has developed a reputation for its community-focused approach. The club runs a successful academy and a number of community outreach programs, and is an integral part of the local community.

In summary, Harrogate Town A.F.C. is a club with a rich history and a bright future. From its humble beginnings in local leagues to its recent successes in the EFL, the club has remained true to its roots, maintaining a strong connection with the local community while striving for success on the pitch. With a dedicated fan base, a talented squad, and a forward-thinking management team, Harrogate Town looks set to continue its upward trajectory in the years to come.