FC United of Manchester is delighted to announce that Elsie Baxter has been appointed as First Team Manager of our Women’s Team.
Elsie has been a valued part of the club for several years, serving as Assistant Manager and Goalkeeper Coach, and previously representing FC United on the pitch. A lifelong supporter, Elsie has followed FC United since she was a young girl – she’s FC United through and through. Her commitment, knowledge and passion for the club and the women’s game have made a real impact, and we are excited to see her step up to lead the first team into the new season.
Elsie, who is a qualified PE teacher with over 10 years’ experience, brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for developing players on and off the pitch. She currently holds a UEFA C Licence, having previously begun her UEFA B journey before the process was interrupted during COVID. Her background in education and coaching gives her a strong foundation for supporting player development and fostering team cohesion.
Elsie is currently in the process of appointing her backroom team as she shapes the next chapter for women’s football at FC United, following a challenging season where the team worked hard to secure their place in the North West Women’s Regional League Premier Division. We’re pleased to confirm that Adam Herring, who assisted with coaching duties last season, has been appointed as Assistant Manager, while Zac Grundy will continue in his role as Strength and Conditioning Coach. Further additions to the coaching team will be announced in due course.
Elsie will also be supported by First Team Captain Alice Firth, who will take on a broader leadership role this season. Alice is highly respected across the club, and alongside other senior players, will form part of a leadership group that supports Elsie and the team both on and off the pitch.
Speaking about her appointment, Elsie said:
“It’s a real honour to take on this role at a club that means so much to me. We have a fantastic group of players, and I’m looking forward to building on the lessons from last season as we look to develop and push on together.”
Simon Preston, FC United Board Lead for Football, added:
“We’re really pleased to appoint Elsie as our Women’s First Team Manager. She understands what this club is about, she knows the game, and she cares deeply about developing players within a supportive environment. We’re excited to back her as she takes on the challenge of moving us forward.”
We are also working hard to put solid foundations for long-term growth in place and are delighted to confirm an ever-closer link with Moston Juniors, with their Under-16s becoming our Women’s Development Team for the 2025/26 season. Strengthening this pathway is a vital part of our commitment to ensuring players at all levels have the opportunity to progress in a supportive, values-led environment.
We remain committed to developing women’s football at FC United, ensuring opportunities for players to thrive within a community-driven structure rooted in shared values.
We’ll share updates on Elsie’s backroom appointments and pre-season plans shortly. In the meantime, we look forward to seeing you at Broadhurst Park this season to get behind the team.