The Stockdale family has today completed the purchase of FC 2010 Holdings Ltd and announced the formation of FC Farsley Sports Club.
Former Premier League goalkeeper David Stockdale lives in West Leeds and has been manager of the men’s first team since February.
David is joined by his wife Katie, who will take the role of chair of the football club.
In a joint statement, the Stockdales said: “At last! We are delighted to formally take the reigns at Farsley. The club and its facilities have real potential and we are honoured to be the owners of a club that has been dear to the hearts of people for many generations.”
It’s hoped the takeover will mark a new beginning for community sport in Farsley.
The Stockdales added: “With a heavy heart Farsley Celtic will have to be liquidated to give football in Farsley the best chance of future success.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all volunteers, fans and staff who helped to keep Farsley Celtic going for as long as it has. We hope you will all join us in going forward with FC Farsley.”
The Stockdales have a clear vision for the future of the club and Throstle Nest.
They said: “We want FC Farsley Sports Club to be the beating heart of both community sports and community activity in Farsley.
“Our vision is to create a leading grassroots sports club that transforms lives through sport, community engagement and social responsibility. We want to create a lasting legacy where everyone, regardless of background or ability, feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
“As well as football, we hope to see all kinds of different sports being played here by people of all ages and abilities, alongside wider community activities.
“We’d love to hear people’s suggestions on what sports and community activities they would like to see here.”
FC Farsley has successfully been operating Women’s and Deaf football teams since the start of this season. It also operates a thriving Development section, which sees more than 300 youngsters playing for the club each week.
Refurbishment and improvements have already started in the clubhouse and the sports hall, along with new gates installed at the entrance to the ground. The Sports Club will be a facilities provider and run the whole site.
Future plans also include installing a new 3G pitch. The club intends to apply to the league to enter a competitive men’s first team from the start of the 2026-27 season.
A spokesperson from FC Farsley Supporters’ Club welcomed the developments. They said: “We are delighted that the Stockdale family have completed their takeover of the club.
“They have some exciting plans and we hope that under their stewardship the club can achieve some much-needed stability.
“We look forward to the return of men’s first team football at the earliest opportunity and fully support the Stockdales’ vision to position to put the club and its facilities at the heart of community sports and other activities in Farsley.
“We look forward to working with David and Katie to ensure FC Farsley’s future is bright.”
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