North Wales women’s football says farewell to much-loved trailblazer Karen Coates

One of the key figures in making North Wales women’s club football the flourishing success it is today sadly passed away this week.

Denbigh Town FC is mourning the loss of club legend Karen Coates.

Karen was a founding member of Denbigh Town Ladies as the team established itself in 2008 and has been a leading light as the women’s game has grown.

She continued to be a popular figure throughout the years both on and off the pitch picking up a number of achievements as she and the club continued to develop.

In the early years, Karen played her part in winning the North Wales Women’s Football League and Betty Pickering Cup, whilst the club also reached the semi-final of the Welsh Cup.

Former manager John Clayton said “Karen was one of the original members of the group which started football training for recreation and went on to form Denbigh Ladies FC.

“Although she had never previously kicked a football, as with everything in her life, she threw herself into it and gradually became a very capable defender and an integral member of the squad, earning the nickname of the Ginger Ninja.

“She trained and played with an infectious enthusiasm which transmitted itself to other players enabling the team to progress and become well-established in North Wales women’s football circles.

“As a member of the leaders’ group in the squad, Karen was always one of the first to welcome new players into the fold and was very popular with everyone, forming friendships that went beyond football.”

Current Denbigh Town Ladies captain Elen James-Owen also had her own tribute towards her former team-mate and friend.

“Without the likes of Karen there really wouldn’t be a football team in Denbigh today,” said the skipper.

“Thanks to Karen and several others who were so dedicated and committed to forming and developing a Denbigh Ladies side, despite football being such a new hobby to them, it allowed youngsters like me and my sister to continue to play football throughout our teenage years.

“I have such fond memories of playing alongside Karen, she was so welcoming and so full of life even in our boxing training sessions! But particularly in our socials and away trips where we would get coaches filled with all our family and friends supporting us.

“Without Karen and the OGs, mine and my sister Haf’s footballing experience would have been a lot different and duller.

“They made football so joyous which has had a massive impact on our continued love for the sport”.

Everybody at Denbigh Town Football Club sends their condolences to Karen’s family, friends and supporters and will forever be grateful for the huge impact she has made on the club.

There will be a minute’s silence held before this Sunday’s game with Bellevue in the NEWFA Cup at Central Park.

There is also a fundraiser to help pay for funeral costs and you can help in any way you can by clicking here.
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