Forest Green Rovers has confirmed it will step back from its current women’s football programme after discussions with Hartpury University over a proposed partnership concluded without agreement.
A spokesperson for Forest Green Rovers said: “We had been in discussions with Hartpury University about a partnership, but the University made a decision that ruled out the possibility of a joint team.
“As a result, we’ll also be stepping back from our joint involvement with Hartpury’s Elite Training Centre for girls aged 9 to 16.
“Our partnership with Hartpury has been worthwhile and valued, and we’ll continue to support them as they explore ways to take the programme forward through Hartpury Women FC.
“Forest Green Rovers is committed to returning to the EFL as quickly as possible, and that means concentrating our resources and efforts on strengthening the Club and achieving that goal.
“This isn’t goodbye to women’s football at Forest Green. We’d like to return to it in the future, when the time is right and when we can build a programme that is sustainable and successful for the long term.
“We’d like to thank the players, staff, volunteers and supporters who have been part of the women’s programme and wish them every success for the future.”
