GUISELEY's youth academy will join a new 'Super League' ahead of the new campaign.

The Vanarama National League North side's youth team will face a new challenge in the coming season after being invited to join the inaugural National League Football Academy.

Guiseley's academy will be playing against only the best next season, as only certain National League youth set-ups have been asked to come into the new league.

The clubs invited are those who have been able to meet set criteria.

There is a Northern Section in the new league which Guiseley will be joining.

Some of the other clubs joining the set-up next season are: AFC Fylde, Alfreton Town, Boston United, Chester, Darlington, FC Halifax Town, Hartlepool United, Kidderminster Harriers, Solihull Moors and York City.

Academy Manager Dave Currie is excited about the new development.

He said: "As an Academy we have progressed year-on-year and this has come at the right time for us.

"Having won our division for the last couple of seasons we feel that having tough games week-in, week-out, will help the players' progression and ultimately help push our players closer to playing for the first team and for professional clubs.

"It is a jump in standards with the top three teams from our division last season moving up into the new set-up and the likes of Hartlepool, Chester City and Solihull will be a real challenge but we really cannot wait to get going now."

The new league has been introduced as part of the National League's Player Development Programme.

Guiseley will have to play ten games at Under-21 level as part of the programme.

The Academy home games are due to be played at Nethermoor.

With the side having to travel more more miles to compete at this elite level, they are welcoming any sponsorship offers.

Anyone interested should contact Dave Currie at: dave.currie@guiseleyafc.co.uk