Alloa Athletic FC is delighted to announce the appointment of Jill Leiper as Player-Manager of Alloa Athletic Women ahead of the 2026/27 season.
A familiar face at Indodrill Stadium, Jill enters her third season with the Wasps having joined the club two years ago as a commanding centre-back. During her time with the club, she played a key role in one of the most significant moments in the team’s history, helping Alloa Athletic Women secure their first-ever cup triumph.
Jill brings a wealth of experience both on and off the pitch. A UEFA Licensed coach, she has spent the last nine seasons coaching within the Heart of Midlothian Women and Girls pathway, helping develop some of Scotland’s brightest young talents. During her time at Hearts, she played a key role in delivering a historic treble-winning campaign while also supporting the progression of numerous players into senior football and international age-group squads, with several earning Scotland caps.
As a player, Jill also enjoyed considerable success with Falkirk, where she was part of a treble-winning side, adding further winning experience to her footballing CV.
Her appointment mirrors the successful pathway taken by Men’s First Team Manager Andy Graham, who transitioned from centre-back to player-manager and continues to lead from the front. Jill will likewise continue her playing career while taking on managerial responsibilities, bringing leadership, experience and a deep understanding of the club’s culture to the role.
The appointment comes at an exciting time for Alloa Athletic Women. This summer will see the launch of the club’s new Girls’ and Women’s Pathway, creating a clear development route from grassroots football through to the senior women’s side. Jill will play a key role in shaping that vision and helping establish a sustainable future for women’s football at Alloa Athletic.
Everyone at Alloa Athletic FC is excited to welcome Jill into her new position and looks forward to supporting her as she leads the next chapter in the club’s journey.
Jill Leiper expressed her excitement on taking the role:
I am delighted to take on the role here at Alloa. I’ve loved every minute so far at the club and I’m excited to lead the next chapter at the club.
Jill Leiper
We have a fantastic group here and winning the Plate was a great moment for us all. The season ahead is one full of opportunities, so I just can’t wait to get started.
Jill will officially begin preparations for the new campaign when pre-season training gets underway on Monday 22 June.
Welcome, Jill.
