Harrogate Town A.F.C.
Harrogate Town Association Football Club is a professional association football club based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England. Founded in 1914 as Harrogate AFC, the club currently competes in EFL League Two, the fourth tier of the English football league system, and is nicknamed the Sulphurites in reference to the town's historic sulphur springs. They play their home matches at Wetherby Road, a stadium with a capacity of approximately 5,000.[1][2][1] The club's early history was marked by interruptions, including folding in 1932 amid financial difficulties following World War I and the Great Depression. A successor club, Harrogate Hotspurs, was established in 1935 and competed in local leagues before adopting the current name, Harrogate Town, in 1948 to better represent the community. Progress through the non-league pyramid was gradual, with key promotions including the Northern Premier League Division One North title in 2001–02 and entry into the National League North as founder members in 2004. The club turned professional in 2017 under manager Simon Weaver, who has led them since 2009 and remains the longest-serving manager in the top four tiers of English football.[3][3][4] Harrogate Town achieved their most notable milestone in 2020 by securing promotion to the Football League for the first time, defeating Notts County 3–1 in the National League play-off final at Wembley Stadium. Since entering League Two, the club has established itself as a competitive lower-table side, with standout performances including a 2–0 victory over Shrewsbury Town in September 2025. Ongoing developments include plans for a £2.75 million training facility at Wetherby Racecourse to support future growth.[4][5][6]History
Formation and early years (1914–1932)
Harrogate AFC was founded in 1914 and admitted to the Northern League for the 1914–15 season.[3] The club's first scheduled fixture was an away match against Bishop Auckland on 5 September 1914, but it was abandoned just hours before kick-off due to a telegram announcing the outbreak of the First World War, with many players enlisting in the armed forces.[3] The conflict led to a complete suspension of competitive football, interrupting the club's nascent operations until after the war.[3] Football resumed in 1919, when Harrogate AFC re-formed and joined the West Riding League for the 1919–20 season.[3] The club's first competitive match took place on 30 August 1919 at Starbeck Lane Ground, resulting in a 1–0 victory over Horsforth.[7] Initial home games were played at Starbeck Lane, before the club relocated to Wetherby Lane (later known as Wetherby Road) in 1920.[8] The team wore amber and black striped kits, earning the nickname "Sulphurites" in reference to Harrogate's famous sulphur-rich spa waters.[3] Over the next decade, Harrogate progressed through regional leagues, joining the Yorkshire League in 1920–21 and briefly the Midland Counties League in 1921–22 before resigning after one season.[3] Key successes included winning the Whitworth Cup in 1919–20 and securing multiple West Riding County Challenge Cup titles in the 1920s, notably defeating Fryston Colliery 3–1 in 1924–25 and Selby Town 2–1 in 1926–27.[9] The highlight came in 1926–27, when the club clinched the Yorkshire League championship, led by prolific scorer Bob Morphet with 44 goals.[10] Despite these achievements, Harrogate AFC returned to the Northern League for the 1931–32 season but folded at its conclusion due to a lack of funds and insufficient supporter backing, which exacerbated financial difficulties and low attendance.[3]Non-league progression (1935–2011)
Following the disbandment of the original Harrogate A.F.C. in 1932, a new entity named Harrogate Hotspurs was established in 1935, competing initially in the Harrogate League before joining the West Riding County Amateur League from 1937 until the suspension of football due to World War II.[9] After the war, the club was renamed Harrogate Town A.F.C. in 1948 and joined the West Yorkshire League, where they remained until 1957.[11] During this early post-war period, the team stabilized at a regional level under figures like secretary-manager roles held by local enthusiasts, with limited notable players emerging amid amateur status, though the focus was on rebuilding community support at their Wetherby Road ground, initially used since 1920 and featuring basic enclosures without significant expansions until later decades.[12] In 1957, Harrogate Town joined the Yorkshire League Division Two, securing promotion to Division One after three seasons in 1960–61 through a third-place finish.[13] They achieved runners-up status in the top flight in 1962–63 but faced relegation in 1967, followed by further fluctuations between divisions until the league's restructuring.[13] By 1982, the club became one of the founding members of the Northern Counties East League (NCEL) Division One North, progressing steadily and earning promotion to the NCEL Premier Division at the end of the 1985–86 season via a playoff victory.[12] This ascent continued in 1987 when Harrogate were inaugural members of the Northern Premier League (NPL) Division One, marking their entry into a higher tier of national non-league football; during the 1980s and 1990s, long-serving players like defender Paul Williamson provided defensive stability across over 400 appearances.[11][14] The early 2000s brought further progression, with Harrogate clinching the NPL Division One title in 2001–02 under manager John Reed with 98 points from 42 matches, earning promotion to the NPL Premier Division alongside the West Riding County Challenge Cup.[11] Key contributors included midfielder John Deacey, whose leadership and goal-scoring from over 500 appearances anchored the squad during this era of stabilization and ambition.[14] Later, under manager Neil Aspin from 2005, the club continued competitive campaigns in the NPL. As part of the Football Conference's expansion, Harrogate became a founding member of the Conference North in 2004 following a fifth-place finish in the 2003–04 NPL Premier Division season, transitioning to the new tier-6 league without a playoff.[15] Harrogate's inaugural Conference North campaign in 2004–05 ended with a bottom-place finish and 37 points from 42 games, but relegation was avoided on the final day due to results elsewhere.[16] The club maintained mid-to-lower table positions in subsequent years, with expansions at Wetherby Road—including improved floodlights and terracing in the 1990s and early 2000s—to meet ground grading requirements for higher divisions.[17] By 2010, facing another relegation threat after finishing 22nd, Harrogate were reprieved when Northwich Victoria were demoted for financial irregularities, allowing the Sulphurites to remain in the division for the 2010–11 season, where they secured a safer 12th place.[18][13]Promotion to the EFL and modern era (2011–present)
In 2011, property developer Irving Weaver assumed chairmanship of Harrogate Town, a club facing financial difficulties and on the brink of relegation from the Northern Premier League Premier Division, with his son Simon Weaver already in place as player-manager since 2009. Under their stewardship, the club stabilized its finances through increased investment and prudent management, avoiding relegation on the final day of the 2011–12 season and beginning a period of steady progression. This family-led transformation shifted Harrogate from a weekly wage budget of around £1,600 to a more sustainable operation, enabling squad improvements and infrastructure focus.[19][20][21] Simon Weaver's tenure saw Harrogate mount strong title challenges in the National League North, finishing second in the 2017–18 season before securing promotion to the National League via a 3–1 aggregate play-off semi-final win over Boston United and a 1–0 final victory against Brackley Town. The 2018–19 campaign in the National League ended in mid-table survival at 18th place, building resilience for the following year. In 2019–20, Harrogate reached the FA Trophy final, defeating Notts County 4–3 on penalties in the semi-finals, though the match was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic; they ultimately won the trophy 1–0 against Concord Rangers at Wembley in May 2021, with captain Josh Falkingham scoring the decisive goal. The league season was suspended in March 2020 amid the pandemic, later curtailed with Harrogate earning a play-off spot based on points-per-game; they advanced with a 1–0 win over Boreham Wood before clinching EFL promotion in the final, beating Notts County 3–1 at Wembley on August 2, 2020.[22][23][24] Harrogate's EFL debut in 2020–21 began with a 4–0 away victory over Southend United on September 12, 2020, marking a strong start despite initial home games being relocated to Doncaster Rovers' Keepmoat Stadium due to pitch compliance issues. The club finished 17th that season, securing mid-table stability in League Two. Subsequent campaigns saw consistent lower-mid-table positions: 19th in 2021–22, 22nd in 2022–23, and 18th in 2023–24, with the 2024–25 season concluding in 18th place amid a competitive division. Early EFL home crowds set new benchmarks at the time, including an attendance of 3,180 for a 6–1 win over Scunthorpe United in October 2021, reflecting growing local support post-promotion. The COVID-19 disruptions extended into 2020–21, with matches played behind closed doors until October, limiting initial fan engagement but allowing adaptation to professional standards.[25][26][27] In 2025, Harrogate exited the FA Cup in the third round with a 1–0 defeat to Leeds United on January 11 at Elland Road, Largie Ramazani scoring the winner in front of 35,584 spectators—the largest crowd the club had ever played before. The season also featured ongoing youth integration efforts, including a restructured development pathway launched in July 2025 under former captain Josh Falkingham, aimed at bridging academy talents to the first team through enhanced coaching and partnerships with local institutions like Harrogate College. These initiatives underscore the Weavers' long-term vision for sustainable growth in the EFL.[28][29]Stadium and facilities
Wetherby Road
Wetherby Road, located in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, on the north side of the A661 Wetherby Road (postcode HG2 7SA), serves as the home ground for Harrogate Town A.F.C. since 1920 and is situated east of and adjacent to Harrogate District Hospital.[30] The stadium, officially named The Exercise Stadium for sponsorship reasons since July 2024, was previously known under sponsor names such as The EnviroVent Stadium (2020–2024).[30][31] The venue has an overall capacity of 5,000 spectators, including 2,000 seated positions, making it one of the smaller grounds in EFL League Two.[32][17] The pitch measures 100 meters by 66 meters (approximately 109 by 72 yards), adhering to standard football dimensions.[30][9] Key features include the Main Stand (also called the Greene King IPA Family Stand), which offers covered seating for around 600 home supporters in six rows, and an adjacent covered terrace for standing fans.[17] Opposite the away terrace, two modern seated stands provide additional covered accommodation, completed in recent years to meet EFL requirements following the club's 2020 promotion.[33] Floodlights, essential for evening fixtures, were first installed in 1982 during a friendly match attended by the Leeds United squad, with energy-efficient LED upgrades added in 2022.[34][35] The stadium's historical significance dates to its opening in 1920, when Harrogate Town moved from Starbeck Lane and hosted their first Yorkshire League match there on 28 August 1920, securing a 2–1 victory over York YMCA.[12] This ground has been central to the club's non-league progression, hosting countless early competitive games and symbolizing continuity amid the team's rise through the football pyramid.[36] Accessibility to Wetherby Road is facilitated by its position roughly 1.5 miles east of Harrogate town center, with the number 7 bus service stopping directly outside the ground for easy public transport access.[37] Parking is limited due to the stadium's location on a busy main road with double yellow lines and a residents-only scheme on nearby streets; supporters are directed to use the Cedar Court Hotel car park, a 15-minute walk away, or street parking where available.[32][38]Developments and training grounds
Following promotion to the English Football League in 2020, Harrogate Town A.F.C. undertook significant upgrades at Wetherby Road to meet professional standards, including the conversion of the main pitch from synthetic 3G turf to natural grass.[39] The project, managed by the STRI Group, involved constructing a new natural turf surface over the existing synthetic base, incorporating a lower rootzone sand layer, upper rootzone, expanded irrigation system, and seeding with drainage enhancements by filling cut strips in the old turf with gravel.[39] Construction began on 4 August 2020, shortly after the club's play-off final victory, and was completed by late October, enabling the first home match on the new pitch on 17 October 2020; this rapid timeline was facilitated by a temporary groundshare with Doncaster Rovers at the Keepmoat Stadium.[39][40] Stadium expansions in the late 2010s and early 2020s increased the overall capacity to 5,000, with seated accommodation reaching 2,000 to comply with EFL requirements.[32] These developments included the addition of hospitality suites within a new clubhouse featuring an elevated terrace for 128 spectators overlooking the pitch.[41] Further enhancements for youth development incorporated 3G pitches, such as the one at the shared Rossett Sports Centre training ground, which supports the academy and women's team.[42] The Rossett Sports Centre serves as the primary off-site training facility, with the Rachel Daly 3G Pitch—named in honor of the England international and former academy player—unveiled in October 2023 to provide dedicated space for youth and women's training.[43] In 2025, the club announced investments in new youth facilities as part of its player pathway strategy, including plans for a £2.75 million training complex at Wetherby Racecourse featuring a single-storey clubhouse, grass and artificial pitches, parking, and landscaping, with a public consultation held in July and a planning application pending submission to Leeds City Council.[44] Recent infrastructure upgrades also encompassed the installation of energy-efficient LED floodlights in 2022 and an LED scoreboard in 2023 to enhance matchday operations and training visibility.[45][46]Players
Current first-team squad
As of November 2025, Harrogate Town A.F.C.'s first-team squad for the 2025–26 League Two season comprises 27 senior professionals, blending experienced EFL campaigners with targeted summer additions to bolster depth under long-serving manager Simon Weaver. Weaver, in his 15th year at the helm, favors a 4-2-3-1 formation that emphasizes defensive solidity and quick transitions, though the team has adapted to a more fluid 4-3-3 in recent matches to accommodate versatile attackers.[47] The squad, excluding loanees, features several 2025 signings aimed at addressing midfield creativity and forward firepower following a mid-table finish in the prior campaign. Captaincy is held by veteran defender Warren Burrell, who provides leadership from the back line.[48][49]Goalkeepers
The goalkeeping department is anchored by two seasoned operators, both in their mid-30s, offering reliability between the posts with combined over 800 EFL appearances.| No. | Player | Age | Date Joined | Previous Club | Contract Until |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mark Oxley (ENG) | 35 | 2023 | Scunthorpe United | 30 June 2027 |
| 31 | James Belshaw (ENG) | 35 | 2024 | Unknown | 30 June 2026 |
Defenders
The backline, led by club captain Warren Burrell, mixes physicality with pace, supporting Weaver's preference for overlapping full-backs in a compact four-man unit. Recent addition Lewis Cass adds dynamism from right-back, signed in summer 2025 to enhance attacking transitions.| No. | Player | Age | Date Joined | Previous Club | Contract Until |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Zico Asare (ENG) | 24 | 2024 | Wycombe Wanderers | 30 June 2026 |
| 3 | Jacob Slater (IRL/ENG) | 21 | Jan 2025 | Brighton & Hove Albion U21 | 31 Dec 2025 |
| 5 | Tom Bradbury (ENG) | 27 | 2024 | Cheltenham Town | 30 June 2026 |
| 6 | Warren Burrell (ENG) | 35 | 2019 | Unknown | 30 June 2027 |
| 15 | Anthony O’Connor (IRL) | 33 | 2023 | Bradford City | 30 June 2027 |
| 20 | Bobby Faulkner (ENG) | 21 | 2024 | Doncaster Rovers | 31 May 2026 |
| 23 | James Moorby (ENG) | 19 | Jul 2025 | Harrogate Town U18 | - |
| 24 | Lewis Cass (ENG) | 25 | Jul 2025 | Grimsby Town | 30 June 2027 |
| 28 | Marcus Etherington (ENG) | 19 | 2025 | Ossett United | 30 June 2026 |
| 30 | Liam Gibson (ENG) | 28 | 2022 | Unknown | 30 June 2026 |
Midfielders
Midfield provides the engine room with a balance of defensive grit and creative flair, exemplified by 2025 arrival Stephen Duke-McKenna, whose pace on the left wing has injected dynamism into Weaver's setup. Josh Falkingham, a club legend with over 300 appearances, transitioned to a non-playing role post-2024–25, paving the way for younger talents like Ellis Taylor.| No. | Player | Age | Date Joined | Previous Club | Contract Until |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Jack Evans (ENG) | 25 | 2025 | FC Halifax Town | 30 June 2026 |
| 7 | George Thomson (ENG) | 33 | 2017 | Unknown | 30 June 2026 |
| 8 | Bryn Morris (ENG) | 29 | 2024 | Unknown | 30 June 2026 |
| 11 | Stephen Duke-McKenna (GUY/ENG) | 25 | Jul 2025 | St Johnstone | 30 June 2026 |
| 17 | Levi Sutton (ENG) | 28 | 2021 | Unknown | 30 June 2026 |
| 19 | Tom Hill (WAL/IRL) | 23 | 2024 | Unknown | 30 June 2026 |
| 21 | Ellis Taylor (ENG) | 22 | 2024 | Unknown | 30 June 2027 |
| 27 | Ben Fox (ENG) | 27 | 2025 | Unknown | 30 June 2027 |
| 29 | Lucas Barnes (ENG) | 18 | May 2025 | - | - |
Forwards
Up top, the attacking line relies on hold-up play and finishing, supported by versatile arrivals like Mason Bennett and Conor McAleny, both signed in 2025 to provide rotation amid a demanding schedule. This unit has shown potency in counter-attacks, aligning with Weaver's tactical emphasis on verticality.| No. | Player | Age | Date Joined | Previous Club | Contract Until |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Shawn McCoulsky (ENG) | 28 | 2025 | Maidenhead United | 30 June 2027 |
| 10 | Mason Bennett (ENG/BRB) | 29 | Jul 2025 | Burton Albion | 30 June 2027 |
| 14 | Conor McAleny (ENG) | 33 | Jul 2025 | Salford City | 30 June 2026 |
| 18 | Jack Muldoon (ENG) | 36 | 2019 | Unknown | 30 June 2026 |
| 22 | Reece Smith (ENG) | 23 | 2024 | Maidenhead United | 30 June 2027 |
| 25 | Tom Cursons (ENG) | 23 | 2024 | Unknown | 30 June 2027 |
Youth academy and notable prospects
Harrogate Town A.F.C. established a revamped youth development structure in July 2025, appointing former captain Josh Falkingham as the club's inaugural Director of Youth Football to oversee the overall strategy.[29] This initiative includes the U19 Football Academy, which competes in the National League U19 system, the Emerging Talent Centre (ETC) for introductory sessions, and the U18 BTEC Football Academy.[29][50] The ETC emphasizes enjoyment and foundational skills for players of varying abilities, serving as an entry point into the club's philosophy.[51] The player pathway spans from U9 to U19 levels, beginning with Player Development Centres (PDCs) and progressing through advanced programs, with opportunities for trials via open sessions and scouting.[52][53] Coaching is led by a dedicated staff, including Ryan Smith as Lead Youth Development Phase Coach, Kevin Wilson as Head of Advanced PDC, and Tom Hullock as Youth Lead Coach, focusing on technical growth and game understanding.[54] Integration with the first team occurs through pre-season training invitations, where select academy players participate to bridge the gap to senior football.[55] A key partnership with Rossett School, announced in February 2025, hosts the BTEC Football Academy, combining professional coaching and competitive matches with a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport for educational equivalence to three A-levels.[56][57] This collaboration supports regional talent scouting by providing a structured route from local PDCs to academy enrollment, fostering holistic development.[58] Among notable prospects in the U18 and U19 setups are centre-back Reece Bellis and midfielder Robbie Wilson, both aged 18, who feature prominently in the youth squad and represent emerging local talents.[59]Notable former players
Harrogate Town A.F.C. has produced several notable former players who left lasting legacies across its non-league and EFL eras. In the club's formative years during the 1920s, Horace "Bob" Morphet emerged as a standout contributor in the Yorkshire League, scoring 44 goals in the 1926–27 season to help secure the championship title, the club's first major league honor. Morphet's prolific output, totaling 64 goals in just 48 appearances between 1923 and 1928, underscored his pivotal role in establishing the team's early competitive identity.[60] During the mid-20th century, players like Jim Hague and George Smith became synonymous with the club's resilience in regional leagues. Hague holds the all-time scoring record with 135 league and cup goals, debuting as the youngest player at age 14 and topping the goal charts in five seasons during the 1950s. Smith etched his name in history by scoring the club's first post-war goal on August 31, 1946, and amassed 46 goals across 124 appearances in two spells from 1946–50 and 1951–56. Later non-league standouts included John Deacey and Paul Williamson, who anchored the defense through the 1970s and 1980s; Deacey made 441 league appearances and scored 70 goals across multiple stints from 1979–89 and 1992–95, while Williamson set the appearances benchmark with 447 games and 65 goals from 1980–93, earning multiple Player of the Season awards.[61] The 2000s and 2010s promotion pushes highlighted midfield maestro Lloyd Kerry, who joined in 2014 and overcame career-threatening injuries to play a central role in the 2018 National League North title win, contributing key assists and goals en route to the EFL breakthrough; he retired in 2022 with over 150 appearances. In the EFL era post-2020, long-serving contributors like Shane Killock provided defensive stability with more than 200 appearances before departing in 2023. Loanees who advanced to higher divisions include Jack Diamond, whose loan spell in 2019–20 culminated in scoring the extra-time winner in the National League play-off final against Notts County, propelling Harrogate into League Two; he later featured for Sunderland in the Championship. Similarly, Kian Harratt, on loan from Huddersfield Town in 2020, netted crucial goals including in the play-off semi-finals, paving his path to senior EFL roles at clubs like Port Vale and Bradford City.[62][63][64]Management and staff
Coaching and technical staff
Simon Weaver has served as manager of Harrogate Town A.F.C. since May 2009, making him the longest-serving manager in the English Football League as of November 2025.[65] Under his leadership, the club achieved promotion to the EFL in 2020 by winning the National League play-off final against Notts County, marking a pivotal milestone in the club's history.[66] Weaver's tactical approach emphasizes a modern, vertical style of play with aggression in both possession and out-of-possession phases, often deploying a 4-2-3-1 formation to balance defensive solidity and attacking transitions in League Two.[67][68] Paul Thirlwell acts as assistant manager, a role he has held since January 2017, supporting Weaver in day-to-day coaching duties with a focus on defensive organization and player development.[69] The coaching team is complemented by Phil Priestley as head of goalkeeping, who oversees specialist training for the club's goalkeepers to enhance shot-stopping and distribution skills.[54] Ben Rome serves as strength and conditioning coach since July 2023, implementing fitness programs tailored to the demands of League Two fixtures to maintain player endurance and reduce fatigue-related errors.[70] The technical staff includes Stuart Thomson as chief performance analyst, appointed in July 2023, who provides data-driven insights on opponent scouting and in-game decision-making to inform Weaver's tactical adjustments.[71] The physiotherapy team, led by Head of Medical Rachel McGeachie since 2019, along with first-team physiotherapists Chloe Laverick, Sarah Stead, and Cyra Smith, plays a crucial role in injury prevention and rehabilitation, contributing to improved player availability amid the physical intensity of League Two—exemplified by their management of key defender recoveries during the 2024-25 season.[72][54] A vacancy for an additional club physiotherapist was advertised in September 2025 to bolster the department's capacity and remains open as of November 2025.[73] In 2025, staff appointments emphasized youth integration, with former captain Josh Falkingham promoted to Director of Youth Football in July to bridge academy pathways to the first team, and experienced coach Greg Abbott joining the Emerging Talent Centre in August to enhance development programs.[29][74] These changes aim to foster seamless transitions for prospects into Weaver's senior setup. The stable ownership structure has supported the continuity of this core coaching group.[19]Ownership and administration
Harrogate Town A.F.C. is owned by the Weaver family, with Irving Weaver serving as chairman and ultimate controlling party since acquiring the club in November 2011.[75][65][19] Following the club's promotion to the English Football League in August 2020, Irving Weaver has provided key financial investments, including £700,000 injected during the 2021/22 financial year to bolster stability and growth amid increased operational costs.[76][77] The board of directors comprises Chairman Irving Weaver, Vice Chairman Howard Matthews, Chief Executive Officer Sarah Barry (appointed September 2021), Events Director Angus Taylor, and Operations Director Dave Riley, supported by a finance team that ensures ongoing EFL compliance in areas such as financial fair play and regulatory reporting.[54][78][79] Administrative milestones include fulfilling EFL entry requirements in 2020, such as upgrading Wetherby Road to meet minimum capacity and safety standards for League Two admission.[80][81][32] In December 2019, the club formed the Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation to drive local health, education, and inclusivity programs.[82][83] By 2025, commercial operations have expanded through new sponsorship agreements, including a multi-year extension with Your Harrogate Radio for matchday broadcasting and mascot sponsorship covering the 2025/26 and 2026/27 seasons, alongside player sponsorship packages to diversify revenue.[84][85]League and competition history
League record and positions
Harrogate Town A.F.C. was founded in 1914 but did not commence competitive league football until the 1919–20 season in the West Riding League following the suspension of activities due to World War I.[86] The club entered the Yorkshire League in the early 1920s, achieving success by winning the title in 1926–27 before transitioning to the Northern League for the 1927–28 campaign.[9] League operations were halted nationwide during World War II from 1939 to 1946, with Harrogate participating in local and regional competitions upon resumption. The club returned to structured senior league football by rejoining the Yorkshire League's Division Two in 1957–58 after several years in amateur setups.[13] Over the subsequent decades, Harrogate experienced a mix of promotions and relegations within regional non-league structures, including the Northern Counties East League (founded 1982) and the Northern Premier League from 1987. Key non-league highlights include survival in the Conference North (now National League North) after promotion in 2004, multiple play-off campaigns such as the 2015–16 semi-final loss, and strong finishes like second place in 2017–18, which secured promotion via play-offs to the National League. The 2019–20 season in the National League was curtailed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with standings determined by points-per-game; Harrogate's second-place finish led to another play-off victory and elevation to the English Football League (EFL). A three-point deduction occurred in 2013–14 for financial irregularities.[87][26][13] Since entering the EFL in 2020, Harrogate have competed exclusively in League Two, establishing mid-to-lower table consistency. Their all-time EFL record through the 2024–25 season comprises 73 wins, 59 draws, and 98 losses across 230 matches, yielding 278 points and an average finish of 17.2nd.[87] The club has avoided relegation while occasionally threatening the play-offs, exemplified by a 13th-place finish in 2023–24 with 63 points. The following table summarizes Harrogate's league record from 1957–58 (the start of verifiable senior league data) to 2024–25, highlighting progress from regional divisions to the EFL. Levels indicate the English football pyramid tier (e.g., Level 4 = League Two). Symbols denote: ▲ promoted, ▼ relegated, ♦ play-offs reached.| Season | League/Division | Level | Position | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | GF | GA | Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1957/58 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 13th | 26 | 4 | 7 | 15 | 43 | 62 | 15 | |
| 1958/59 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 6th | 24 | 12 | 4 | 8 | 71 | 61 | 28 | |
| 1959/60 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 5th | 28 | 15 | 6 | 7 | 62 | 34 | 36 | |
| 1960/61 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | ▲3rd | 36 | 24 | 6 | 6 | 96 | 42 | 54 | Promoted |
| 1961/62 | Yorkshire League Div 1 | 8 | 6th | 30 | 13 | 6 | 11 | 56 | 45 | 32 | |
| 1962/63 | Yorkshire League Div 1 | 8 | 2nd | 30 | 18 | 4 | 8 | 70 | 34 | 40 | Runners-up |
| 1963/64 | Yorkshire League Div 1 | 8 | 3rd | 30 | 15 | 6 | 9 | 53 | 29 | 36 | |
| 1964/65 | Yorkshire League Div 1 | 8 | 12th | 30 | 9 | 7 | 14 | 46 | 55 | 25 | |
| 1965/66 | Yorkshire League Div 1 | 8 | 14th | 30 | 8 | 3 | 19 | 49 | 65 | 19 | |
| 1966/67 | Yorkshire League Div 1 | 8 | ▼17th | 32 | 1 | 6 | 25 | 34 | 110 | 8 | Relegated |
| 1967/68 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 17th | 32 | 5 | 4 | 23 | 31 | 83 | 14 | |
| 1968/69 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 16th | 32 | 7 | 2 | 23 | 42 | 85 | 16 | |
| 1969/70 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | ▼10th | 34 | 12 | 10 | 12 | 40 | 54 | 34 | Relegated |
| 1970/71 | Yorkshire League Div 3 | 10 | 12th | 28 | 8 | 6 | 14 | 34 | 45 | 22 | |
| 1971/72 | Yorkshire League Div 3 | 10 | ▲2nd | 26 | 15 | 6 | 5 | 54 | 27 | 36 | Promoted |
| 1972/73 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 6th | 30 | 16 | 3 | 11 | 55 | 44 | 35 | |
| 1973/74 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 9th | 30 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 37 | 43 | 27 | |
| 1974/75 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 10th | 28 | 8 | 8 | 12 | 41 | 37 | 24 | |
| 1975/76 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 12th | 28 | 5 | 8 | 15 | 30 | 51 | 18 | |
| 1976/77 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 10th | 30 | 9 | 12 | 9 | 45 | 50 | 30 | |
| 1977/78 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | ▼13th | 28 | 7 | 6 | 15 | 38 | 55 | 20 | Relegated |
| 1978/79 | Yorkshire League Div 3 | 10 | 13th | 28 | 7 | 6 | 15 | 27 | 55 | 20 | |
| 1979/80 | Yorkshire League Div 3 | 10 | 6th | 26 | 11 | 6 | 9 | 44 | 36 | 28 | |
| 1980/81 | Yorkshire League Div 3 | 10 | ▲2nd | 30 | 20 | 4 | 6 | 64 | 31 | 44 | Promoted |
| 1981/82 | Yorkshire League Div 2 | 9 | 1st | 30 | 16 | 8 | 6 | 56 | 29 | 40 | Champions, promoted |
| 1982/83 | N. Counties East League Div 1 N | 9 | 4th | 26 | 12 | 10 | 4 | 42 | 23 | 34 | |
| 1983/84 | N. Counties East League Div 1 N | 9 | 7th | 26 | 12 | 4 | 10 | 43 | 31 | 28 | |
| 1984/85 | N. Counties East League Div 1 N | 9 | 2nd | 32 | 17 | 9 | 6 | 61 | 35 | 60 | |
| 1985/86 | N. Counties East League Div 1 | 9 | ▲3rd | 30 | 16 | 6 | 8 | 65 | 42 | 54 | Promoted |
| 1986/87 | N. Counties East League Premier | 8 | 9th | 36 | 14 | 10 | 12 | 48 | 48 | 52 | |
| 1987/88 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 10th | 36 | 13 | 9 | 14 | 51 | 50 | 48 | |
| 1988/89 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 8th | 42 | 19 | 7 | 16 | 68 | 61 | 64 | |
| 1989/90 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 9th | 42 | 17 | 9 | 16 | 68 | 62 | 60 | |
| 1990/91 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 19th | 42 | 11 | 13 | 18 | 55 | 73 | 46 | |
| 1991/92 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 10th | 42 | 14 | 16 | 12 | 73 | 69 | 58 | |
| 1992/93 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 10th | 40 | 14 | 12 | 14 | 77 | 81 | 54 | |
| 1993/94 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 20th | 40 | 8 | 9 | 23 | 40 | 86 | 33 | |
| 1994/95 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 13th | 42 | 14 | 8 | 20 | 57 | 78 | 50 | |
| 1995/96 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 21st | 40 | 7 | 10 | 23 | 54 | 96 | 31 | |
| 1996/97 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 17th | 42 | 13 | 8 | 21 | 55 | 76 | 47 | |
| 1997/98 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 19th | 42 | 8 | 14 | 20 | 57 | 80 | 38 | |
| 1998/99 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 11th | 42 | 17 | 7 | 18 | 75 | 77 | 58 | |
| 1999/00 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 11th | 42 | 14 | 12 | 16 | 65 | 67 | 54 | |
| 2000/01 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | 11th | 42 | 15 | 10 | 17 | 60 | 70 | 55 | |
| 2001/02 | Northern Premier League Div 1 | 7 | ▲1st | 42 | 25 | 11 | 6 | 80 | 35 | 86 | Champions, promoted |
| 2002/03 | Northern Premier League Premier | 6 | 6th | 44 | 21 | 8 | 15 | 75 | 63 | 71 | |
| 2003/04 | Northern Premier League Premier | 6 | ♦▲5th | 44 | 24 | 5 | 15 | 79 | 63 | 77 | Play-offs, promoted |
| 2004/05 | Conference North | 6 | 6th | 42 | 19 | 11 | 12 | 62 | 49 | 68 | |
| 2005/06 | Conference North | 6 | ♦5th | 42 | 22 | 5 | 15 | 66 | 56 | 71 | Play-off semi-final |
| 2006/07 | Conference North | 6 | 6th | 42 | 18 | 13 | 11 | 58 | 41 | 67 | |
| 2007/08 | Conference North | 6 | 6th | 42 | 21 | 11 | 10 | 55 | 41 | 74 | |
| 2008/09 | Conference North | 6 | 9th | 42 | 17 | 10 | 15 | 66 | 57 | 61 | |
| 2009/10 | Conference North | 6 | 21st | 40 | 8 | 6 | 26 | 41 | 80 | 30 | |
| 2010/11 | Conference North | 6 | 12th | 40 | 13 | 11 | 16 | 53 | 66 | 50 | |
| 2011/12 | National League North | 6 | 15th | 42 | 14 | 10 | 18 | 59 | 69 | 52 | |
| 2012/13 | National League North | 6 | 6th | 42 | 20 | 9 | 13 | 72 | 50 | 69 | |
| 2013/14 | National League North | 6 | 9th | 42 | 19 | 9 | 14 | 75 | 59 | 63* | *3 pts deducted |
| 2014/15 | National League North | 6 | 15th | 42 | 14 | 10 | 18 | 50 | 62 | 52 | |
| 2015/16 | National League North | 6 | ♦4th | 42 | 21 | 9 | 12 | 73 | 46 | 72 | Play-off semi-final |
| 2016/17 | National League North | 6 | 11th | 42 | 16 | 11 | 15 | 71 | 63 | 59 | |
| 2017/18 | National League North | 6 | ♦▲2nd | 42 | 26 | 7 | 9 | 100 | 49 | 85 | Play-offs, promoted |
| 2018/19 | National League | 5 | ♦6th | 46 | 21 | 11 | 14 | 78 | 57 | 74 | Play-off quarter-final |
| 2019/20 | National League | 5 | ♦▲2nd | 37 | 19 | 9 | 9 | 61 | 44 | 66 | COVID curtailed, PPG; play-offs, promoted |
| 2020/21 | League Two | 4 | 17th | 46 | 16 | 9 | 21 | 52 | 61 | 57 | |
| 2021/22 | League Two | 4 | 19th | 46 | 14 | 11 | 21 | 64 | 75 | 53 | |
| 2022/23 | League Two | 4 | 19th | 46 | 12 | 16 | 18 | 59 | 68 | 52 | |
| 2023/24 | League Two | 4 | 13th | 46 | 17 | 12 | 17 | 60 | 69 | 63 | |
| 2024/25 | League Two | 4 | 18th | 46 | 14 | 11 | 21 | 43 | 61 | 53 |
Cup competitions
Harrogate Town A.F.C. has participated in various domestic cup competitions throughout its history, achieving notable success in non-league formats prior to its promotion to the Football League in 2020, while experiencing competitive but typically early exits in professional-era cups. The club's cup performances have often highlighted its underdog status, with occasional upsets against higher-tier opponents providing memorable moments. In the FA Cup, Harrogate's most significant achievements came in the 2021–22 and 2024–25 seasons, when the club advanced to the third round proper—its deepest progression to date—in both campaigns. In 2021–22, they beat Portsmouth 2–1 (with Jack Diamond's injury-time winner) before losing 4–0 to Luton Town; in 2024–25, they progressed past the first two rounds before suffering a narrow 0–1 defeat to Championship side Leeds United at Elland Road, with Largie Ramazani scoring the decisive goal in the 59th minute. Historically, Harrogate has produced several giant-killings, including a dramatic 1–0 victory over League One's Portsmouth in the 2021–22 second round, where Jack Diamond's injury-time winner eliminated the 1939 FA Cup winners and propelled the Sulphurites into the third round. Another notable upset occurred in the 2012–13 season's first round, when a 1–0 win against League Two's Torquay United saw Harrogate reach the second round as a non-league side. In the 2025–26 season, Harrogate exited in the first round with a 2–3 defeat to Mansfield Town on November 1, 2025.[88] Since joining the Football League in 2020, Harrogate has entered the EFL Cup annually, with its best performances reaching the second round in both the 2020–21 and 2023–24 seasons. In 2020–21, the club defeated Tranmere Rovers 2–1 on penalties (after a 1–1 draw) in the first round before a 0–3 loss to West Bromwich Albion in the second, offering valuable exposure against higher-division teams. The 2023–24 campaign followed a similar pattern, with a 1–0 win over Carlisle United in the first round leading to a 0–8 loss against Blackburn Rovers in the second. These outings, though brief, have provided developmental opportunities for squad players and young talents. In the EFL Trophy, Harrogate's strongest showing was a quarter-final appearance in 2021–22, where the club navigated group stages and early knockouts before a 0–1 elimination by Sutton United. Subsequent seasons have seen group-stage participation, including a 1–0 victory over Huddersfield Town U21 in September 2025, underscoring the competition's role in youth integration despite consistent early knockouts. Harrogate's most prestigious cup triumph came in the FA Trophy, where the club won the 2019–20 edition—the last before its Football League promotion. In the delayed final at Wembley Stadium on 3 May 2021, Harrogate defeated Concord Rangers 1–0, with captain Josh Falkingham scoring the winner in the 50th minute to secure the club's first national trophy. This victory followed semi-final success against Notts County (1–0 away) and York City (aggregate 3–1), capping a resilient campaign interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to this, Harrogate had reached the FA Trophy semi-finals twice: in 2009–10, losing to Barrow, and in 2018–19, falling to Fylde, demonstrating the club's growing prowess in non-league knockout football. The club has also enjoyed sustained success in regional competitions, particularly the West Riding County Cup, with eight victories prior to 2011. These triumphs include wins in 1924–25, 1926–27, 1962–63, 1972–73, 1985–86, 2001–02, 2002–03, and 2007–08, often against local rivals and contributing to early community support for the club.Supporters and culture
Fan base and attendance
The Harrogate Town Supporters Group, a fan-run organization independent of the club, has been active since the early 2010s, providing a platform for fans to discuss matches, organize events, and engage with the team through social media channels like Facebook and Twitter.[89][90] This group, along with the Harrogate Town Independent Supporters Club, contributes to supporter culture by coordinating away trips and promoting chants such as traditional renditions of "Yellow and Black Army" and player-specific songs that energize the crowd at home games.[91][92] Away followings typically average around 200 supporters per League Two match, reflecting the club's regional base, though this can swell significantly for high-profile fixtures.[93] Attendance at Harrogate Town's home games has shown substantial growth since the club's promotion to the English Football League in 2020, rising from pre-EFL averages of approximately 500-700 in the National League North to a post-promotion average of around 2,700 in League Two.[94] In the 2024-25 season, the average home attendance reached a record 2,948 across 23 League Two matches, underscoring the increasing popularity of the club at the Exercise Stadium.[95] Peaks in 2025 included over 3,900 Harrogate fans traveling to Elland Road for the FA Cup third-round tie against Leeds United on January 11, marking one of the largest away supports in club history.[96] The fan base is predominantly local to Harrogate and the surrounding North Yorkshire area, with a population of about 160,000 providing a core of dedicated supporters who have embraced the club more fully following EFL entry, transforming a town historically more associated with tourism into a growing football community.[97] This demographic expansion is supported by community initiatives like the free Junior Supporters Club, which offers matchday perks and educational programs for young fans aged 12-17 through the Young Fans Voice Group.[98][99] Further engagement comes via the Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, a registered charity that runs school outreach programs, inclusivity campaigns, and fan zones to foster broader participation in the district.[100] The Kick Back scheme, for instance, has enabled grassroots clubs to earn over £2,200 in the 2024-25 season by referring new supporters, while the Fan Advisory Panel—launched in May 2025—ensures structured input from the fan base on club strategy and matchday experiences.[101][102] These efforts have helped build a welcoming atmosphere, earning the club a reputation as one of the friendliest in English football.[103]Rivalries and traditions
Harrogate Town A.F.C.'s primary rivalry is with FC Halifax Town, often referred to as the West Riding derby, which has featured intense non-league clashes dating back to the 1980s.[104] These encounters, frequently occurring in regional competitions like the West Riding County Cup, have built a competitive history with Harrogate securing victories in key matches, such as a 2-1 win in the 2013 quarter-finals.[105] The rivalry stems from the clubs' shared Yorkshire roots and proximity, with head-to-head records showing Harrogate winning four of their past 13 meetings.[104] In addition to Halifax, Harrogate maintains local fixtures against other Yorkshire sides, including York City and Bradford City, which generate derby atmospheres due to geographical closeness. York City, located in nearby North Yorkshire, is considered Harrogate's closest rival, with all four meetings between 2016 and 2018—non-league contests—ending in Harrogate victories.[32] Matches against Bradford City, approximately 20 miles away, evoke strong fan animosity rooted in regional pride, as seen in Harrogate's 3-0 home win in March 2024 before a record league crowd of 3,905.[106] These games occasionally involve youth teams in pre-season or cup ties, fostering early competitive spirit.[32] The club's traditions revolve around its nickname, the Sulphurites, derived from Harrogate's historic sulphur springs in the spa town, a moniker adopted since the early days when the team played in amber and black kits.[107] Supporters celebrate this identity through chants and merchandise, emphasizing the town's unique heritage. Pre-match events at Wetherby Road Stadium often include fan gatherings and hospitality options like meals, enhancing the community feel ahead of kick-off.[108] The club also honors its 1926–27 Yorkshire League title, the first major championship won under forward Bob Morphet's 44-goal haul, through historical references in club materials and the inaugural Hall of Fame launched in 2023 to recognize past achievements.[109][110] Rivalries remain largely peaceful, with no significant fan incidents reported; Derby days often see attendance spikes, underscoring their importance to the fan base.[106]Records and statistics
Club records
Harrogate Town achieved their largest victory in the English Football League with a 6–1 win against Scunthorpe United on 9 October 2021.[111] In non-league competitions, the club recorded higher margins, including 6–0 victories over FC United of Manchester on 10 March 2018 and Solihull Moors on 23 January 2016, both in the National League North.[111] The club's longest unbeaten league run stands at 10 matches, achieved during the opening fixtures of the 2018–19 National League season under manager Simon Weaver, which helped propel them to the top of the table early in the campaign.[112] This sequence positioned them well for a sixth-place finish and play-off qualification that season, though promotion was secured in 2019–20 via an unbeaten run through the National League play-off semi-final and final. Regarding defensive records, Harrogate kept 19 clean sheets across all competitions in the 2001–02 season, when they won the Northern Premier League Division One title.[113] Jim Hague holds the all-time scoring record for Harrogate Town with 135 goals, amassed between 1946 and 1957.[114] In more recent times, forward Jack Muldoon has emerged as a prolific scorer, netting 84 goals for the club since joining in 2018, including key contributions during their EFL establishment.[115] The single-season goals record belongs to Bob Morphet, who scored 44 times in the 1926–27 Yorkshire League championship-winning campaign. These tallies underscore the club's scoring heritage, particularly tied to promotion successes like the 1926–27 title. Harrogate Town demonstrated strong discipline in their inaugural EFL seasons, receiving just one red card across all League Two matches in 2024–25, fewer than all but two other clubs that year.[116] This low incidence of dismissals reflects a controlled approach under manager Simon Weaver, aiding their mid-table stability in the fourth tier. As of November 2025, the 2025–26 season has seen continued competitive performances, including a 1–0 victory over Huddersfield Town in the Vertu Trophy on 30 September 2025.[117]Head-to-head and attendance records
Harrogate Town have faced FC Halifax Town in 12 competitive matches since their first encounter in the 2011–12 Northern Premier League Premier Division season, with the record standing at 4 wins, 4 draws, and 4 losses for Harrogate.[118] The rivalry, rooted in regional non-league competition, has seen balanced results, including a 2–2 draw in the 2019 National League at Wetherby Road.[118] Against Notts County, Harrogate's head-to-head record across 8 meetings since 2020 shows 3 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses, highlighted by their 3–1 victory in the 2020 National League play-off final at Wembley Stadium, which secured promotion to the EFL for the first time in club history.[24] Subsequent League Two fixtures have been competitive, with the most recent being a 1–1 draw on 15 November 2025 at Meadow Lane. Notts County holds an edge in recent seasons.[119][120] Harrogate met Leeds United for the first time in the 2024–25 FA Cup third round on 11 January 2025, losing 1–0 at Elland Road in a match that marked their only competitive encounter to date.[121]| Opponent | Matches | Harrogate Wins | Draws | Opponent Wins | Goals For/Against |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FC Halifax Town | 12 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 12/16 |
| Notts County | 8 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 11/12 |
| Leeds United | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0/1 |
Honours
League
- Northern Premier League Division One: 2001–02
Cups
- FA Trophy: 2019–20