The 2023-24 football season is nearly upon us and The Herdwick caught up with Shaun Gardner as he talks promotion and the new challenges ahead.

GT7 Academy Ladies are Kendal based side who this season will play in the Premier Division of the Lancashire Women’s County League having gained promotion from the Championship last season.

Looking back on this accomplishment Gardner said: “Last season was brilliant, and it’s actually testament to how far we’ve come in the short space of time that we were slightly disappointed with a 3rd place finish.

“But looking back, we’re delighted that we managed to build on the previous year and ultimately got promoted.”

The side had topped the table for much of the season but were overhauled by an unbeaten Bolton Wanderers and were three points off Blackpool FC in second.

With promotion comes new opponents and when asked if there are any that the side is looking forward to playing Gardner replied: “Everyone.

“Each team brings it own challenges for us, but we are lucky to be able to compete with them this season and looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch once more.”

Looking towards the new season we asked what Gardner was targeting for the new campaign.

“The targets are very simple this season.

“To enjoy it.”

Continuing he said: “We know it’ll be a competitive league, with some top quality teams on show, but we are confident of putting up a fight.”

With the season approaching we asked how the players looked coming back for preseason training.

“We haven’t been back too long, but the players have looked sharp in the sessions.

“No-one looks forward to that first session back, but they’ve applied themselves well and we’re looking forward to a busy pre-season schedule.”

As with all clubs there is recruitment ahead of the new season and Gardner said: “The new players have been welcomed with open arms and have settled in well.

“Each one of them has provided us with more quality in different areas of the pitch, so we’re happy with where we currently are.”

While the team has improved on the pitch Gardner says the behind the scenes and sponsors are just as important.

“Just like any team, the support behind the scenes are just as important, if not more.

“We are always welcoming new sponsors, to help us move forward.”

GT7 Academy Ladies kickoff their campaign with a trip to Accrington Stanley Women FC on Sunday, September 3.