The New Saints Women are delighted to announce that youth prospect Ava Homer has signed semi-professional terms with the club.

The 17-year-old has enjoyed a strong progression through the club’s pathway and is now in her third season at Park Hall, having joined the Saints at Under 15s level.

Her development has been reflected in consistent involvement across multiple age groups, as well as increased exposure to the first team environment.

Homer made her senior debut last month in the Bute Energy Welsh Cup, featuring in the 7-0 victory over Cambrian United, while she’s also been named on the substitutes’ bench on several occasions in the Genero Adran Premier during the current campaign.

Last season, the defender made 25 appearances for the Under 16s and has continued to represent both the Under 17s and Under 19s this season, while regularly training with the senior squad.

Head coach Kieran Lee-Birch praised Homer’s progress and highlighted the club’s commitment to youth development:

“Ava has been training with the senior team for the best part of the season and she’s recently made her first team debut as well,” said Lee-Birch.

“Since myself and Jack have come in, we’ve been really impressed with her level and we see her as a really important part of our future. She’s more than ready to play games in our first team environment.

“Across the club, from the Under 19s and Under 17s all the way down to the Under 13s, we’ve got some really talented players, and we want talented girls to know there is a clear pathway here at The New Saints.

“In training, Ava is up against the likes of Chantelle Teare and Caitlin Chapman, which is a great learning experience and one that will really put her in a strong position going forward.”

Speaking after signing her first semi-professional contract, Homer said:

“I’m really proud to sign my first semi-professional contract with The New Saints. I’ve been at the club for three seasons now and it’s felt like home from the moment I joined. Training regularly with the first team has helped me develop so much, and making my debut in the Welsh Cup was a really special moment.

“The coaches and players have been brilliant with me, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given. I’m excited to keep learning, push myself in the first team environment and hopefully play a big part for the club in the future.”

Everyone at The New Saints would like to congratulate Ava on signing her first semi-professional contract and looks forward to supporting her continued development in a green and white shirt.