ATWFC: Q&A WITH JOSH JONES

As preparations continue for the new campaign, we caught up with Assistant Manager Josh Jones to discuss the team's ambitions, the impact of the new signings, and why supporters should be excited for the season ahead.

Credit: Geraint Nicholas/FAW

What are you hoping to see from the team this season?

"We’re looking to see continued development throughout the season. We want the players to keep improving, play with confidence, and show the togetherness and work ethic we’ve been building. If we can consistently perform to our standards, compete in every game, and continue progressing week by week, we’ll give ourselves the best chance of achieving our goals."

This marks the first full pre-season that Rhys Jon James and his coaching staff have had with the squad, giving them the opportunity to reset, implement their ideas and build strong foundations ahead of the new campaign.

How have the new signings settled into the squad?

"They’ve settled in really well. The group has been incredibly welcoming, and the new players have adapted quickly to the environment and the way we want to work. They’ve come in with a great attitude, worked hard from day one, and have already built strong relationships with the rest of the squad, which is really pleasing to see."

What have the new players brought to the team?

"They’ve brought real quality, energy, and healthy competition for places, which is exactly what you want as a coaching staff. Each player offers something different, whether that’s experience, technical ability, athleticism, or personality. They’ve helped raise the standards in training, and that competition pushes everyone to improve, which can only benefit the team."

New additions such as Llio Henshaw, Anna Phelps, and Chloe Edwards have been brought in to strengthen an already talented young squad at Aberystwyth University Park Avenue. The coaching staff spent several months identifying players who could add quality and depth ahead of the new season.

Alongside these additions, a number of younger players have been integrated into the senior squad. They are expected to play an important role in the Under-19s' campaign while also providing valuable competition and contributing to first-team football throughout the season.

Credit: Geraint Nicholas/FAW

What would you say to anyone coming to watch the team this season?

"I’d encourage everyone to come down and support the team this season. We’re aiming to play exciting, entertaining football that’s enjoyable to watch, but we also want to be organised, competitive, and a team that’s really difficult to beat. The players are working incredibly hard every day to deliver performances the supporters can be proud of, and having the fans behind us makes a huge difference. We’re looking forward to creating plenty of memorable moments together this season."

With the squad continuing to grow together and new additions already making a positive impact, there is plenty of optimism around the club ahead of the new campaign. The coaching staff remain focused on continuous improvement, hard work and building a team that supporters can be proud of every time they step onto the pitch.

Supporters can look forward to an exciting season at Aberystwyth University Park Avenue, so be sure to get behind the Seasiders and follow the team's journey throughout the 2026/27 campaign.