A New Era for Rugby Town Girls’ Academy

At Stanair, we believe that real community impact comes from supporting opportunity — not just in business, but in sport and personal growth too. 

 

That’s why we’re proud to celebrate the launch of the Rugby Town Girls’ Academy, a milestone moment for local football and for the next generation of young women in sport. 

 

What started as a vision is now a fully fledged programme led by Liam O’Neill, giving talented players across the Midlands a genuine pathway to develop, compete, and dream big. 

 

It’s an inspiring story of dedication, teamwork, and belief — one we’re thrilled to be part of. 

When Liam O’Neill talks about the new Rugby Town girls’ academy, it’s hard to keep up. His words come fast, full of conviction, barely pausing for breath. The passion is contagious. 

 

“This has been coming for a long time,” he says. “Every school visit, more and more girls wanted in – but there was nothing for them to join. That’s changed now. And it had to.” 

 

The girls’ programme, which officially begins its first season on 4 August, is the latest step in Rugby Town Academy’s growth. With the boys’ team already a proven success story – Liam’s previous squad made it to both the FA Youth Cup 3rd round and National League finals – this is a new challenge but one he’s embracing wholeheartedly. 

 

“There’ll be tough matches. They’ll go up against stronger, more experienced teams. But that’s how you learn. That’s how you get better. We’re building something that will last.” 

 

For the seventeen girls who’ve joined from across Warwickshire, Birmingham, Leicester and Coventry, the chance to train seriously and compete at a high level is already a win. Liam’s goal is to grow the intake to twenty five a year, supported by the same coaching structure, intensity and professionalism that the boys’ programme has long offered. 

 

But don’t mistake that for ticking boxes. 

 

“These girls aren’t here because they’re girls. They’re here because they can play. I treat them the same way I treat any footballer – with respect, with structure and with expectations.” 

 

Liam holds the PFA UEFA A Licence, the highest coaching qualification in world football. His plan is to bring in a UEFA licensed female coach to support the group as it grows and he hopes to introduce joint sessions with the boys’ squad to build skills, share ideas and inspire both sides. 

 

He’s also learning. Fast. 

 

“I’ve coached a long time but this has opened my eyes to so much. There are different styles, different strengths and it’s pushing me to be better. It’s honestly given me a new lease of life.” 

 

And he’s not doing it alone. Long time club sponsor Stanair has supported the academy since 2018, backing both the boys’ and girls’ sides. Their continued commitment is helping bring Liam’s vision to life – not with slogans or promises but with practical, consistent support. 

 

“We’re proud to be part of this journey,” says William Smith, Managing Director of Stanair. “Liam’s energy is incredible and we’ve seen first hand how much he cares about every player. It’s not about headlines – it’s about hard work and opportunity.” 

 

Simon Barnicoat, Stanair’s Sales Manager, agrees. “We’ve been with the academy since the start. What they’ve built is something special and launching the girls’ team feels like the next big step. You can feel the buzz around it already.” 

 

For Liam, the ambition is crystal clear. 

 

“I want to be the first in this area to help get a girl into the professional leagues. Why not? If a tiny percentage of boys make it, why can’t girls? We’ve got the talent. Now we’ve got the platform.” 

 

Whether this year brings trophies or just tough lessons, he knows the value lies in the effort. 

 

“We succeed or not – we tried. That’s the bit I care about. They’re out there, they’re competing and they’ve got a shot. That’s what matters.” 

 

The Rugby Town girls’ academy is here. And by the sound of it, they’re only just getting started...