After a turbulent past few seasons having been let go by the men’s side, Gillingham Women will now be known as Chatham Town Women.

Having played their home fixtures at the home of Chatham Town this past season, Gillingham Women’s future has been in some doubt in recent months, but the move to a new affiliation to their hosts will cause some surprise to many and rule out a return to the fold of the League Two side.

Despite some suggestion that Gillingham Women could find themselves back at Priestfield under new owner Brad Galinson, the rename to Chatham Town Women effectively rules that out and the following statement has been released by the club:

Following several seasons in the wilderness as a standalone, independently run club, with no home ground, training ground, external facilities, or revenue streams, Gillingham Women are delighted to announced that approval has been received from the National FA Council, the FA Women’s National League and the Kent FA to change name with immediate effect to Chatham Town Women.

The club will retain the FA Women’s National Premier Division South (Tier 3) status.

Kevin Hake (Chairman) and the team of dedicated volunteers at Chatham Town answered an SOS in September. The team and staff have since made Chatham Town their home and are delighted to have a bright and sustainable future.

Dan Logue will remain as First Team Manager and the playing squad, who finished last season with a very credible 7th placed league finish and Kent Cup victory, will continue to grow from strength to strength with off-field enhancements.

The club will be launching a brand new girls academy and will enter teams into the JPL at U12-U18. If you’re aged 11-17 and would like to arrange a trial please get in touch with Danny Hammell today ([email protected])

The club is also excited to announce a Reserve Academy side for season 23/24. This will provide a direct pathway to the First Team; the team will play in the FA Women’s National Youth u21 league. If you’re aged between 16-20 years and would like to arrange a trial please get in touch with Tim Moffatt today ([email protected])

All Social Media handles are in the process of being changed across the week – please give them a follow. We’re proud of our history so all previous posts will be retained where possible.

This is an exciting time for women’s football in Medway and Kent, the support received from the local community since the return to Medway has been phenomenal.

Please get behind the team next season, starting with a prestigious home friendly at Chatham Town FC where Women’s Super League side West Ham United provide the opposition on Wednesday 9th August.

Up The Chats!