Celtic FC Women are poised to kick off their preparations for the upcoming 2026/27 season, with the squad's return to Barrowfield imminent. The team is also set to unveil a new home ground at the Kirkintilloch Community Sports Complex, a strategic move aimed at enhancing both fan experience and team performance. Head Coach Grant Scott recently toured the facility, expressing optimism about the future as the team looks to build on their past achievements and address areas for growth.
As July unfolds, the Celtic FC Women's team is gearing up for an intense pre-season training regimen. The players are expected to reassemble at Barrowfield this Friday, signaling the official start of their preparations for the 2026/27 season. Their sights are firmly set on their initial competitive match scheduled for August, marking the culmination of their off-pitch efforts.
Beyond the training ground, the club has been diligently working behind the scenes. A significant number of players have committed to extended stays, ensuring continuity and stability within the squad. Crucially, the team will transition to a new home venue, the Kirkintilloch Community Sports Complex, where all their upcoming home fixtures will be held.
Grant Scott, the Head Coach, conveyed his enthusiasm for the new chapter at Kirkintilloch. He emphasized that this relocation is a positive step, offering a fresh opportunity to connect with local supporters and cultivate an expanded fan base. Scott also praised the quality of the playing surface and the intimate setting of the new venue, believing it will foster a more vibrant atmosphere for both players and spectators. He noted that a smaller stadium is conducive to creating a more intense and engaging match-day experience, which he believes will be beneficial for the team.
Scott underscored the unwavering loyalty of their existing fan base, expressing deep gratitude for their support. However, he also articulated a clear ambition to broaden this support by delivering compelling performances on the pitch. The goal is to present a brand of football that inspires pride among fans, encouraging them to rally behind the team in their pursuit of further success. He views the move as an opportunity to elevate the overall experience for everyone involved, from players to loyal followers, envisioning a product on the field that perfectly aligns with a spirited, localized environment.
Entering the new season, the "Ghirls" carry the momentum of their triumphant Scottish Cup victory at Hampden in May. Coach Scott believes it is crucial to harness this success as a foundation for future achievements. While acknowledging the high point of winning a trophy, he also stressed the importance of learning from the disappointments of the previous league campaign. He highlighted the need for the squad to analyze their mixed performance levels – periods of brilliance interspersed with weaker spells – to refine their approach and ensure consistent excellence.
Scott acknowledged the fluctuating performance levels throughout the previous season, characterized by moments of exceptional play and periods that fell short of expectations. Despite these inconsistencies, he affirmed the critical importance of the Cup victory for the squad's morale and confidence. He commended the team's resolute performance in the competition, particularly their ability to overcome top-tier opponents. This success, he stated, provides tangible evidence of their capability to compete at the highest level within their division. However, he cautioned against allowing this triumph to mask any underlying issues that contributed to their shortcomings, urging a balanced and realistic assessment. The season presented significant challenges, including a change in management and numerous injuries that severely tested the squad's depth. Despite these hurdles, winning the Cup was a deeply gratifying moment for the team, reinforcing their commitment to achieving further victories and continuous improvement.
