JAMES WEST
Welcome to this week’s magazine! What a fantastic week it has been for the club! Before anything else, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who took the time to read last week’s very first issue of the programme and for all the kind words of support that followed. We are so proud to be putting this together each week, and it’s brilliant to know it’s being so well received.
It was a truly memorable start to the season for the Vixens, who launched their Women’s FA Cup campaign in sensational style with an 8–0 win over Boston United. It was more than any of us could have hoped for—a dream opening to the competition. A big thank you also goes to the travelling supporters who made the hour-and-a-half journey to Boston to get behind the girls. With close to 200 people in attendance, it was incredible to see so many familiar faces cheering us on. The roar when that first goal went in gave me goosebumps, and it’s a moment I won’t forget in a hurry.
Closer to home, the Kits began their season at the weekend with a fiercely contested local derby against Brookside Athletic Reserves. The match ended
in a 1–1 draw, and it was great to see a strong mix of new signings and returning players out on the pitch. A special mention must go to Vicky Marriott, who picked up Player of the Match on her return from maternity leave. It’s wonderful to see her back in the squad and already making such a big impact.
Unfortunately, the men’s team fixture was called off last weekend, and with no league match scheduled for this weekend either, the lads will instead welcome our friends Top House FC to Hoby Road for a friendly. I’m really looking forward to finally watching them in action this season and meeting some of the new faces in the squad.
Lastly, I’d like to extend a warm welcome and heartfelt thanks to our newest sponsor, Brandsby Project Services Ltd, who join our fantastic group of partners supporting the club this year. Your backing makes such a difference, and we’re truly grateful for it.
Best of luck to all of our teams and players in action this week. Here’s to another exciting weekend of football.
Viva La Thurmo!
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE VIXENS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Women’s league division 1 Asfordby Acres, Hoby Road. LE14 3TL Kick Off - 14:00
Vixens Ready for League Kick-Off.
What a way to begin the season! After last weekend’s incredible 8–0 victory in the FA Cup, our Vixens come into their first league fixture of the new campaign buzzing with confidence. This Sunday, we are proud to host Allexton & New Parks in what promises to be a thrilling encounter, and for the very first time, we welcome you all to our new home here at Asfordby Acres. The move to Asfordby was not a decision taken lightly, but it already feels like the right one. With the exciting projects we have underway at the club, we wanted a
venue that matched our ambition both on and off the pitch. The facilities at Asfordby are outstanding, and the team of people working tirelessly behind the scenes make it such a natural fit for us. This ground feels like home, and what a fantastic stage it will be for the Vixens to showcase their football this season.
We hope you’ll agree that it’s a brilliant place for us to grow and to welcome our opponents throughout the campaign.
Today’s visitors arrive in fine form themselves, fresh from their own FA Cup success. Allexton & New Parks defeated Higham Town 3–1 in last weekend’s first qualifying round, so they too will be
riding a wave of confidence. With both teams starting their league campaigns today, it sets up a mouthwatering clash here at Asfordby Acres.
Of course, memories of last season are still fresh. Allexton had the upper hand over us on three occasions, including that heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat in the League Cup semi-final. But as we step into a new season, we are treating today as a clean slate. This is a fresh start, and we are determined to write a different story this time around.
There’s no doubt Allexton pose a significant challenge. They boast an attacking style built around quick, sharp counter-attacks, and they have a rock-solid defensive line that makes them difficult to break down. Behind that backline stands one of the most talented goalkeepers in the league—a real last line of defence who has saved her team time and time again. We know we will have to be at our very best this afternoon, switched on from the first whistle, if we are to take all three points.
What we also know, though, is that the Vixens are more than capable of rising to the occasion. Last week’s FA Cup performance showed the attacking quality, team spirit, and determination running through this squad. With the backing of our supporters and the belief within the team, there is every reason to be excited about what we can achieve today and throughout the season. So sit back, get behind the girls, and enjoy what promises to be an exciting contest. We warmly welcome Phil and his Allexton side to Asfordby Acres, and we look forward to a competitive, entertaining game of football.
Here’s to the start of a memorable league campaign. Up the Vixens!
A CHAT WITH
LAUREN BRACEY
Bracey made a huge impact last season, picking up both Player’s Player and Manager’s player of the season last year. She’s next up in the hot seat to face the big questions.
A – ALL-time favourite football player Lucy Bronze.
B – What BOOTS do you wear & your preferred BOOT BRAND
Just black boots, always. Would normally say Nike but adidas this season!
C – Your go to CELEBRATION when you score?
Nothing but smiles and pure shock!
D – Who is the worst DANCER in the squad?
The baby of the team, Annie, and her moves after a few drinks is always a sight.
E – What do you like to EAT before a game?
Eggs on toast with some avocado for breakfast.
F – Who has the worst FASHION sense in the squad?
G – What is the best GOAL you have ever scored?
Not many to choose from so it’s an easy one, header in cup game for Thurmo last season.
Sorry Lib but that Arsene Wenger coat even in the summer… football fashion red flag.
H – How do you keep yourself HYDRATED & HEALTHY throughout a season?
I try… down some water after a night out, drag myself to training and recently been convinced to do a bit of running.
I – Who is the biggest INSPIRATION in your life & why?
My parents - they’ve always been my biggest supporters in whatever I do. They both inspire me to work hard and enjoy even the smallest moments.
J – Who is the biggest JOKER on the team?
The Duracell Bunny himself, Westy, always keeps it light hearted with the occasional ‘joke’.
M – What is your go to pre match MUSIC?
Can never go wrong with sing song to Dancing Queen.
N – Who is the NICEST player in the squad?
Our one and only keeper, Zoe. Breaks her wrist and still continued to do everything for the team. We all love you, Zoe!
O – Can you describe your personality in ONE word?
Organised
P – What is your favourite POSITION to play?
Centre Back.
Q – What is the best QUALITY you need in a teammate?
Commitment.
R – How do you normally deal with a REFEREE’S tough decision?
Have a moan then shout ‘play to the whistle’.
S – Which football club did you grow up SUPPORTING?
A Man United household and now a boyfriend who supports Liverpool… it’s a dilemma
T – What TV-SHOW are you currently watching?
Educating Yorkshire
U – What is the most UNFORGETTABLE moment of your football career?
My first game for Thurmo and season opener last season, the Oakham comeback was amazing.
V – VACATION spot you’d love to visit after the season?
Cape Verde is high on my long list of places to visit.
W – WHO is your best friend in the team & why?
Soph, my car travel buddy. Always pushing me to be better… need a break from chasing another 5k PB.
X – What is the worst injury (X-RAY) of your football career?
Been very lucky so far but always seems to involve getting hit in the face. I had an awful black eye from a header a few years ago
Y – How many YEARS have you played football for?
15 years
Z – What is your ZODIAC sign and do you believe it matches your personality on the pitch?
I’m a Cancer and, I may lack creativity in my football but will always be determined to do my job.
Lauren Bracey
Sponsored by
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE KITS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Women’s league division 2 Roundhill Academy, Thurmaston. LE4 8GQ Kick Off - 14:00
This weekend brings a real treat for supporters as we enjoy a double header, with both of our sides in action at home. Our Development Team—the Kits—take centre stage this afternoon as they host Leicester City Development in their second league game of the season.
The Kits opened their campaign last weekend with a hard-fought 1–1 draw against local rivals Brookside Athletic Reserves. Last season’s top scorer,
Kaisey Higgott, wasted no time in getting back on the scoresheet, tucking away a clever finish after being set up by Nadia Karmada. Nadia was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet herself, missing from the penalty spot later in the game, but her energy and creativity caused problems throughout. With both sides cancelling each other out, the points were shared, but it gave the Kits a solid platform to build on.
This weekend, the focus is firmly on getting that first win of the season. The Kits face familiar opposition in Leicester City Development, a team we know will provide a stern test. The two sides have already crossed paths during pre-season at the Harborough Town 7s Tournament, where the Kits went on to lift the Silver Cup. Leicester also met our Vixens during pre-season, so there’s no shortage of familiarity between the clubs. One thing is certain—Leicester will arrive well prepared and ready for a battle.
Leicester are a physical, determined side, and they will be eager to get one over on us. But history is on the Kits’ side: last season we got the better of Leicester on both occasions, winning 2–1 at home and 3–1 away. Those results will give the team confidence, but they’ll know they cannot take anything for granted. Leicester won’t go down without a fight, and today’s match has all the makings of a competitive, entertaining contest.
of Sarah Jenkins this weekend. We’re hugely grateful to Bex for her support and know she’ll bring great energy and leadership to the role.
Finally, as always, we want to say a massive thank you to our supporters. Your encouragement from the touchline makes such a difference to the players, and we’re delighted to have you backing the team again today.
On the sidelines, Bex Wells steps in to manage the team in the absence
Here’s to another exciting afternoon of football—and hopefully the Kits’ first three points of the season!
A CHAT WITH
GEORGIA SANDERS
Big G was named as vice captain this season and we have seen her confidence grow and grow. Let’s see what she had to say for herself.
A – ALL-time favourite football player
Peter Schmeichel. He was the best keeper when I was growing up and my Dad liked him.
B – What BOOTS do you wear & your preferred BOOT BRAND
I only ever wear Adidas boots. They are my good luck charm.
C – Your go to CELEBRATION when you score?
It would be a miracle if I was to score but I’d deffo slide on my knees or something.
D – Who is the worst DANCER in the squad?
I’d say Jodie. I’ve seen her dance moves and they aren’t great.
E – What do you like to EAT before a game?
Scrambled Eggs on toast
F – Who has the worst FASHION sense in the squad?
H – How do you keep yourself HYDRATED & HEALTHY throughout a season?
I try to eat as healthy as I can, drink plenty of water and stay active.
I – Who is the biggest INSPIRATION in your life & why?
I’ve only ever seen Demi turn up in her full tracksuit so we will have to give her a shout out for being our big merch wearer.
G – What is the best GOAL you have ever scored?
In a 9 a side game. straight from a goal kick.
My Dad. He used to be a great goalkeeper so I look upto him.
J – Who is the biggest JOKER on the team?
I’d actually say Leah, Jodie and Freya as their sense of humour is just brilliant
K – What KIT number do you love to wear & why?
Number one because I’m always a keeper.
L – What is the biggest LESSON that football has taught you?
Confidence and skill comes with time. If you don’t work hard you don’t get it.
M – What is your go to pre match MUSIC?
Something up beat like Rihanna.
N – Who is the NICEST player in the squad?
I’d say Kaisey Higgott. Me and her seem to have a laugh all the time.
O – Can you describe your personality in ONE word?
Unique
P – What is your favourite POSITION to play? In Goal Duh!.
Q – What is the best QUALITY you need in a teammate? Communication. You don’t get far without it.
R – How do you normally deal with a REFEREE’S tough decision?
I just try to ignore it and pick the team back up.
S – Which football club did you grow up SUPPORTING?
Man United because my Dad supported them. Now I have seen sence I have changed teams.
T – What TV-SHOW are you currently watching?
The rookie. It’s really good.
U – What is the most UNFORGETTABLE moment of your football career?
Saving a penalty. I saved 3 last season.
V – VACATION spot you’d love to visit after the season?
I want to go to Greece and see loads of stray cats.
W – WHO is your best friend in the team & why?
I wouldn’t say I have a best friend. We are all really close and it’s like a little family.
X – What is the worst injury (X-RAY) of your football career?
The first time I dislocated my shoulder. It was in a men’s game and since then I have started to have my shoulder pop out many times.
Y – How many YEARS have you played football for?
8 years. 2 up front and then 6 in goal.
Z – What is your ZODIAC sign and do you believe it matches your personality on the pitch?
I’m an Aries. It does match me!
Sponsored by Georgia Sanders
DPC IN THE COMMUNITY
FREYA’S STORY
Sometimes football is about more than just the results on the pitch—it’s about community, opportunity, and making sure the next generation of players fall in love with the game just as much as we have. That’s why we’re so pleased to share a wonderful story that reflects exactly what our club is all about.
When Kits manager Sarah Jenkins spotted a post on Facebook about a local girl, Freya Stabik, who had sadly lost her football, she instantly understood the importance of the situation. To many people, it may just seem like a football, but for a young player who is developing her passion for the sport, it represents so much more. Every kick, every practice session, and every chance to play with friends can help shape the future of a footballer—and Sarah was determined to make sure Freya didn’t lose that spark.
Freya, who currently plays for a local mixed team in East Goscote, is already proving to be a versatile talent, capable of playing in a number of positions. Her favourite role is out on the left wing, where her pace, energy, and determination shine through. At such a young age, it’s inspiring to see her enthusiasm and commitment to improving her game, and we’re thrilled that she is part of our wider footballing family here in Thurmaston.
Reaching out to Freya’s mum, Sarah offered to replace the ball so that Freya could continue enjoying the game she loves. It was a small gesture, but one that carries a powerful message: girls belong in football, and every step we can take to keep them involved makes a difference.
We are also proud to announce that we have invited Freya to join the club in the Vixen’s Second Round Qualifying fixture on the 21st September as a club Mascot and will lead out the team before the game!
Moments like this are what football is truly about. It’s about connection, inspiration, and creating memories that last a lifetime. By welcoming Freya into the matchday experience, we not only hope to give her a day she’ll never forget, but also to encourage more young girls across our community to get involved in the game and to believe that football really is for everyone.
ROSS COLLINS
2025/26 SQUAD
ABBIE SANDLE
EMILY LOCKETT
JESS SEATON
KATIE STONE
NADIA KARMADA
GEORGIA SANDERS
ZOE HILL
EVIE LUDLOW
COALVILLE TOWN RAVENETTES U9S
MORGAN BIRD
FREYA COOKE
JODIE HILL
SARAH JENKINS
2025/26 SQUAD
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
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NIALL CARTER
HONOUR SLATER
SOPHIE HOWARD
MOLLY CARTER
ANNIE BARNES
KYRA OLDFIELD
LAUREN HEMS
VICKY MARRIOTT
MARRIAM RAWEL
DEMI ANDREWS
RAHIMA MOHAMAD
HOLLY JACKSON
CASEY ALLEN
DANIELLE HAY
DANIELLE LEE
2025/26 SQUAD
LIBBIE TAYLOR
ALYS BROGAN
LAUREN BRACEY
CANDICE-MARIE HATHAWAY
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
LEAH WHEELER
IMOGEN SANDERS
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SOPHIE HOWARD
HONOUR SLATER
KAISEY HIGGOTT
NATALIE FRIDAY
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AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
JADE HOWDEN
CHLOE MCDERMOTT
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A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR CLUB SPONSORS
CLUB & DEVELOPMENT SPONSORS
VIXENS HOME KIT SPONSOR
KITS HOME KIT SPONSOR
AWAY KIT SPONSOR CREATIVE SPONSOR
We would also like to offer a huge thank you to Both Blues Home Improvements and Bridge Car Services. Thanks also go to all of our other donators for their generosity and kindness in supporting the club during the difficult period following the fire damage to our cabin.
VIXENS ON TOUR
FA CUP HEROICS
A historical moment for the club as our Vixen’s entered the FA Cup for the first time in our history. Here’s how they got on.
Our Vixens wrote themselves into the club’s history books last weekend with a remarkable 8–0 win over Boston United in the first qualifying round of the Women’s FA Cup at the Jakemans Community Stadium. It was the team’s debut in the famous competition, and the performance could not have been more impressive—dominant, clinical, and full of the passion that defines this squad.
For the players, staff, and travelling supporters, it was a day to savour. Competing on the national stage for the very first time, the Vixens rose to the occasion and put in a performance that will live long in the memory.
A Professional Start
of Stag Fencing & Groundworks, along with thoughtful extras from Loc8me Loughborough and Thurmaston Design & Print Co. It was a touch of professionalism that created the perfect atmosphere for the players to focus on the job ahead.
Boston, a fellow Step 7 side from the Lincolnshire League, had recently appointed an exciting new manager, so the Vixens knew not to take anything for granted. The squad set the tone from the moment they arrived, looking sharp in their brand-new tracksuits kindly provided by **Sports Direct**. Inside the changing rooms, they were greeted by their striking new home kits courtesy
The warm-up was full of energy and purpose, and from the very first whistle it was clear the girls were ready to compete.
Early Breakthrough
The Vixens wasted no time stamping their authority on the tie. Just five minutes in, debutant Jess Seaton marked her first competitive appearance in style, finding space in the box and calmly finishing to give the visitors an early lead. The goal settled any nerves and underlined the intent of the side—to play on the front foot and make the most of the occasion.
The game then became a scrappy midfield battle, with neither team able to carve out many clear-cut chances. But midway through the half, the Vixens struck again. Annie Barnes, alert and composed in front of goal, doubled the advantage to make it 2–0.
Boston responded with a spell of pressure before the interval, but the Thurmaston defence held firm, ensuring the girls went into the break with a two-goal cushion.
Second-Half Dominance
If the first half had been about building control, the second was all about unleashing attacking flair. Boston came out pressing high and looking to force their way back into the contest, but it only created more space for the Vixens to exploit.
Libbie Taylor, who had been pulling the strings in midfield all afternoon, made it 3–0 with a fine finish early in the second half. It was no less than she deserved after dictating play with confidence and composure.
Set Pieces and Special Moments
Then came a moment of brilliance from the bench. Introduced into the action, Kit’s captain Evie Ludlow produced one of the goals of the game. A long-range strike from outside the box that flew into the net to make it four. The reaction from both the players and supporters said it all: a captain’s goal on the big stage.
With Boston tiring, the Vixens kept the pressure on, and a highlight of the match came with the fifth goal. A perfectly rehearsed set-piece routine, devised by Assistant Manager Mollie Jowett, came off in spectacular fashion. The delivery was inch-perfect, and Morgan Bird rose highest to power a header into the top corner. It was a brilliantly executed move, and the celebrations reflected the hard work put in on the training ground.
Confidence was flowing now, and Maz Rawel added her name to the scoresheet with a thunderous long-range effort to make it 6–0. It was a strike that summed up the team’s attacking intent, fearless, ambitious, and clinical.
As Boston began to tire, the Vixens showed no mercy. Abbie Saddle, so often a threat from dead-ball situations, scored her customary set-piece goal to make it seven, before captain Emily Lockett rounded off the scoring. Though she may not have known too much about it, Emily bundled the ball home from another
delivery into the box, completing an 8–0 rout and sparking jubilant celebrations.
A Day to Remember
When the final whistle blew, the Vixens had not only secured a place in the next round but had also delivered a statement performance. Libbie Taylor was deservedly named Player of the Match, with four assists and a goal in a display that showed exactly why she is held in such high regard.
The support in the stands made the day even more special. With just under 200 spectators inside the Jakemans Community Stadium and a large number travelling from Thurmaston, the noise and encouragement gave the players a huge lift. The cheer for the opening goal will be remembered for a long time.
Looking Ahead
From the professionalism shown off the pitch to the ruthless performance on it, this was a day when the Vixens showed just how far they have come. An 8–0 win in our very first FA Cup tie will forever be remembered as one of the landmark moments in Thurmaston history.
A special thank you goes to Andrew Lee of Stag Groundwork & Fencing, who kindly treated the team to a celebratory round of drinks after the game. It was the perfect way to end what had been a truly historic day for the club.
The journey continues, and after this display, there is every reason to believe it could be a very exciting one.
LEAGUE TABLE
LEICESTERSHIRE WOMENS AND GIRLS DIVISION 1
LEAGUE TABLE
LEICESTERSHIRE WOMENS AND GIRLS DIVISION 2
FIXTURES
FIXTURES
NEXT WEEK’S FIXTURES
SUNDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER 2025
Shepshed Oaks v Foxes
Coalville Town v Vixens
Coalville Town Development v Kits
