Statement on Buchan

Scottish Women’s Football can confirm that Buchan have notified us of a decision to fold their senior team with immediate effect and withdraw from the SWFL North league.

The side has already postponed and forfeited games this season and Buchan have stated they will not be able to fulfil fixtures for the rest of this season because of being unable to recruit players.

Scottish Women’s Football understands the challenges faced by clubs to remain sustainable, but this is nonetheless a disappointing development as withdrawing at any point is hugely disruptive to all other teams competing.

Clubs affiliating teams into the SWFL must demonstrate clear resilience, the ability to attract and retain players by valuing them publicly and a commitment to fulfil all league and cup fixtures. Buchan continue to have an active youth section and SWF will continue to work with the club to support the nurturing of that pathway.

As per the rules, Buchan’s withdrawal from SWFL North renders league results and fixtures against them null and void, and Sunday’s ScottishPower League Plate knockout tie will be awarded to West Park

The league tables have been updated accordingly. SWFL North will continue with eleven teams.