Kelci-Rose Bowers Joins the Pirates
Real Bedford Women are delighted to announce the signing of Kelci-Rose Bowers, who has already made an impact for the Pirates in Sunday’s comeback victory.
Comfortable at right-back and wing-back, Kelci brings an attacking approach alongside experience from England’s youth international setup and spells with Southampton, Chelsea, Louisiana State University, Portsmouth, AFC Bournemouth and Hashtag United.
Originally from Fareham, Kelci developed at Southampton before joining Chelsea’s academy, where she helped win the 2021/22 FA Women’s Super League U21 Southern Division title and trained with the senior women’s team. She also earned recognition with England’s youth sides before moving to Louisiana State University, making seven appearances during the 2022 collegiate season.
Kelci initially joined Bournemouth on loan from Portsmouth during the 2023/24 season before making the move permanent that summer. She went on to make 70 appearances and score 11 goals for the Cherries, helping the club secure the Division One South West title and National League Plate in 2024/25.
Last season, she was part of the Bournemouth side that finished third in the Southern Premier Division and lifted the FA Women’s National League Cup, beating Plymouth Argyle 1-0 in the final at Loftus Road.
Kelci faced the Pirates twice during that campaign, with Bournemouth winning 4-1 in Bedford before Real Bedford claimed a 2-1 victory in the return fixture at the Vitality Stadium. She now brings that experience of the division to Charlie Bill’s squad.
Following her departure from Bournemouth, Kelci joined Hashtag United this summer. After a short spell with the Essex side, she now begins a new chapter with Real Bedford.
Kelci describes her style as hardworking, technical, direct and attacking. Encouraged by the club’s direction and positive conversations with Charlie, she is eager to continue her development while contributing at both ends of the pitch.
Having been a summer recruitment target, Kelci has already demonstrated her quality in a Real Bedford shirt, playing a significant part in Sunday’s turnaround by scoring the goal which put us ahead.
Charlie Bill said:
“Kelci is a big addition to our squad. She is a player we were actively trying to recruit in the summer, so it’s really pleasing for us to have managed to get her signed so early in the season.
We have already seen first-hand the quality she shows both on and off the ball. This was evident during her first appearance on Sunday, where she played a huge part in our comeback victory. We’re looking forward to continuing to work with Kelci.”
Kelci said:
“I’m really excited about the opportunity to join Real Bedford. I’ve heard great things about the club and the direction it’s going in, and I feel it’s a really good environment for me to develop and contribute. I’ve spoken with Charlie and had a really positive conversation about the club and what they’re looking for.
I’m comfortable playing Right Back and Wing Back. I’d describe my style as hardworking, technical, direct and attacking. I always look to work hard for the team, contribute both defensively and going forward, and give everything I can on the pitch.
I’m looking forward to getting started and hopefully helping the team achieve its goals this season.”
Welcome to the Pirates, Kelci.