Dykes transitions into Assistant Coach role.

One of the longest-serving players in the women’s game, the 32-year-old joined Bristol Academy in 2009, having started her playing career across the Severn Bridge for Llanelli Reds and Cardiff City.

Now regarded as one of the stalwarts of the women’s game and an integral figure for Bristol City from the beginning, the composed and popular full-back has amassed over 150 appearances in all competitions at the club she has served for over a decade.

Her dedication to the game was recognised in late 2019 when she was awarded an MBE in the 2020 New Year’s Honours List for her services to women’s football in Wales.

In the last two seasons under Manager Tanya Oxtoby, Dykes’ leadership skills have flourished, taking over the captaincy of the club and leading the Robins to their highest finish and points total in the 2018/19 campaign since the club re-joined the Women’s Super League in 2016.

The full-back’s playing days are not over but instead a new chapter in her footballing journey with Bristol City Women is only just beginning.

“It wasn’t a decision that I made lightly, I gave it a lot of time and thought but I feel at this stage in my career it was the right time to make my transition from player into coach and start a new chapter,” said Dykes.

“Eleven years at one club is a long time, I’ve loved it here and it has been my home, now it’ll be my home from a different perspective. It’s been tough at times, as is it as every club, but, like I said, I’ve loved it and would like to thank all the managers I’ve played under, the staff, the players I’ve taken to the pitch with and the fans for everything they’ve given me during my time at the club.

“I’ve been coaching for a number of years and it’s something that I have a passion for. I started playing at twelve, I was then coaching by the age of sixteen and now is the time where I want to give back to the game and this club.

“Tanya has been brilliant to work with over the last few seasons and she has been a mentor to me, and I know she has played a big part in me taking this role - I’m excited to work alongside her on the touchline this season and coach a very talented squad.”

Dykes has been a crucial component in the club’s success, securing promotion to the Women’s Super League, two Women’s FA Cup finals spots as well as being a part of Bristol Academy’s memorable Champions League campaign in 2014.

“I’ve said numerous times that I would love to have Loren transition on to our coaching staff when the time is right for her,” said Oxtoby.

“She is a legend of this club and it’s very rare that you find someone that has such a great knowledge of the women’s game combined with Loren’s communication skills and coaching ability.

“I’m excited to continue my work with her and begin her transition into the coaching side of football, and I’m glad as a club we can reward her for everything she has given both on and off the field in over a decade of service.”