Gwalia United are delighted to announce the signing of defender Ella Hilliard ahead of the 2025/26 season, as the ambitious Tier 3 side continues to strengthen its ranks. Hilliard arrives from Derby County, having previously developed through the Bristol City Academy system and represented Wales at every age-group level up to Under-19s. A composed and technically gifted defender, Hilliard brings both pedigree and poise to a Gwalia back line that continues to evolve in line with the club’s aspirations.
Ella is known for her tactical intelligence, ball-playing ability, and calmness under pressure — qualities that have seen her consistently selected for international age-grade squads and hold her own across different levels of the domestic game.
Manager James Thomas welcomed the new addition with enthusiasm:
“We’re really pleased to bring Ella to Gwalia United. She’s played at a high standard both domestically and internationally, and we believe her experience will add a great deal of quality to our back line.
“She’s a very intelligent footballer — technically excellent, tactically aware, and composed in and out of possession. Those traits are exactly what we’re looking for as we try to play with more control and purpose from the back.”
Hilliard becomes the latest in a string of exciting summer arrivals for Gwalia United, who continue to blend youthful ambition with proven experience. Her signing reinforces the club’s long-term strategy of investing in talented Welsh players with high development ceilings and national-team potential.
While still young, Hilliard has amassed significant experience, having featured in highly competitive environments in both academy and senior football. Her ability to read the game and distribute effectively from deep will be key assets as Gwalia look to build attacks with greater fluency and tempo this season.
Hilliard said she was looking forward to the next chapter:
“I’m really excited to join Gwalia United. The club has big ambitions, and I’m looking forward to being part of the journey. It’s a great environment for development, and I can’t wait to get started with the team.”
With pre-season underway and competition for places intensifying, Hilliard’s arrival represents another step forward as Gwalia United continue to shape a squad capable of challenging at the very top of the third tier.
