Thurmaston DPC FC was founded in 2017 to meet the growing demand for local football — not just as a team, but as a safe space where men could forget their daily struggles, stay active, and support their mental wellbeing in a friendly, welcoming environment.
The club was launched alongside the Chairman’s business, Thurmaston Design & Print Co., which gave the team both its name and identity. From day one, the badge proudly featured a fox crest, representing its Leicester roots, paired with black and white as the club colours. To this day, the black and white socks remain a symbol of the club’s heritage.
In September 2017, James West led the first ever DPC side into competition in the Leicester & Charnwood Sunday Football League.
Finding a Home
Interest within the village of Thurmaston grew rapidly. Although the team initially played home fixtures at Thurnby Lodge, it quickly became a priority to bring football home. That breakthrough came at the end of the 2017/18 season, when DPC played its first fixture in Thurmaston — a cup tie at Elizabeth Park. Despite defeat, it marked a turning point.
Shortly after, an agreement was reached to relocate to Garden Street, giving the club its first true base. Support grew, crowds increased on Sunday mornings, and more players expressed interest. The club’s philosophy came to life: To provide competitive football for adults who want to play.
Expansion and First Silverware
By the third season, demand was so high that a reserve team was formed, allowing even more local players to represent the club. Around 50 adult men were now proudly wearing the DPC badge.
That same year, the club fundraised and purchased its own site cabin for Garden Street — transforming an empty pitch into a proper home with storage and changing facilities.
In 2020/21, the club underwent a structural reshuffle to create a better player pathway and ensure the First Team remained competitive. It paid off — under James West, the club secured its first-ever silverware, with captain Piers Wheeler lifting the trophy after a dominant cup final performance.
The Birth of the Women’s Section Momentum continued, and in 2021, a group of women approached the
club asking to start a ladies’ team. The answer was simple: Yes.
The 2021/22 season saw the launch of the third DPC team — the Women’s Section, managed by captain Piers Wheeler. Returning to Thurnby Lodge, they stunned everyone by winning Leicestershire Women’s Division 2 at the first attempt — the club’s first league title.
Meanwhile, the Men’s First Team reached two cup finals, showcasing just how far the club had come.
FA Cup Dreams & Relocation
In October 2022, FA Cup fever hit as the Men’s First Team entered the Sunday FA Cup for the first time, stepping onto the national stage.
However, growing challenges in Thurmaston — lack of facilities and limited support — led to a major decision: the club would relocate all teams to Necton Street, Syston, gaining brand new changing facilities and room to grow.
The move paid off. That season:
have made 50+ appearances, with Jadie Stone still the only woman to score 50 goals for the club.
A New Era (2024/25)
The Men’s Section made the bold decision to relocate to Asfordby FC, drawn by the exceptional facilities and support. Though further from Thurmaston, it represented a step forward.
• Men’s First Team won the Sunday Premier Trophy as underdogs
• Reserves won Division 2
• Women’s First Team battled strongly after promotion to Division 1
Records & Milestones
The club has seen 22 men reach over 50 appearances, with 6 surpassing 100.
6 men have scored over 50 goals.
On the women’s side, 8 players
The Women’s Section returned to Roundhill School, launching a development team — the Kits, opening the door for even more women to play. Founder James West took over as Vixens First Team Manager, managing both men’s and women’s first teams for the remainder of the season. When the Kits needed guidance, Sarah Jenkins stepped in as player-manager, providing both leadership and compassion.
Where We Stand Today
• Dylan Patel now leads the Men’s Team, keeping the spirit of competitive, inclusive football alive.
• The Vixens welcomed Assistant Manager Mollie Jowett, boosting the coaching setup.
• The Vixens relocated to Asfordby, while the Kits remain at Roundhill.
• Most significantly, the club has entered the Women’s FA Cup for the first time ever — competing at the highest level available.
From a humble village team formed on a park in 2017 to competing on the national stage — Thurmaston DPC FC continues to prove what passion, community, and self-belief can achieve.
NOTES FROM THE GAFFER
JAMES WEST
Welcome Back to Viva La Thurmo Magazine
After a quiet weekend with no home fixtures for the girls, Viva La Thurmo returns! This weekend, the Kits host Harborough Town Imps, while the Vixens hit the road to take on Desford.
Our Men’s team continue to face challenges with their league fixtures, as scheduling issues have caused disruption and frustration. We’ve been in regular contact with the Leicester & Charnwood Sunday Football League for clarification, but we’re still awaiting a formal update. Fortunately, I had the chance to watch their second league match of the season at home against FC Poplar—a thrilling encounter that ended in a hard-fought 3–3 draw.
That same weekend, the Vixens played an equally exciting game at Asfordby against Birstall United, securing a fantastic 5–2 victory. The Kits had no fixture that week, but both women’s sides returned to action last weekend. The Vixens faced local rivals Brookside Athletic and, despite a strong effort, fell 4–1 in a tough outing. With a depleted squad and a below-par performance, they’ll be eager to put things right this weekend. The Kits, meanwhile, travelled to Melton Foxes and produced a dominant display, winning 19–0. The gulf in quality was clear, with standout
performances from Madi Warner and Katie Stone, who both scored multiple goals.
This weekend offers both teams a valuable opportunity to face opponents lower down their respective tables and, hopefully, collect vital points. That said, no opposition should be underestimated. The Vixens’ trip to Desford promises to be a real test—Desford are a physical and determined side who always rise to the occasion against us. The Vixens will need to be sharp to avoid any slip-ups.
Our Men’s team are also on the road, heading to Moira United in the County Cup. It’s a long Sunday morning journey, but that’s part of the magic (and madness!) of cup football.
Before we finish, the club would like to extend its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Harrison Thompson, who sadly passed away last week at the age of 13 after a short battle with cancer. Harrison spent his footballing journey with Thurmaston Magpies and was wellloved throughout our community. His story has touched us all, and our thoughts are with everyone who knew him.
Enjoy your football this weekend—and remember, never take your time on the pitch for granted. Viva La Thurmo!
Westy
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE KITS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Women’s league division 2
The Kits return to Roundhill this weekend to host Harborough Town Imps, fresh off the back of an incredible 19–0 victory over Melton Foxes. It was a statement performance from a strong travelling squad, who showed their quality against a Melton side still finding their feet after heavy defeats earlier
in the season (11–0, 27–0, and 11–0).
The two sides had met just a few weeks earlier in the cup, when Melton scored their first-ever goals in a 9–2 defeat to the Kits — a sign of their gradual improvement. Determined not to be on the wrong end of an upset, the Kits came out firing from the first whistle.
They started brightly, and it didn’t take long for the goals to flow. Player of the Match Madi Warner led the charge with an incredible performance — five goals and seven assists. Katie Stone also netted five times, while Lauren Hems grabbed a fine hat-trick of her own. The scoring was rounded off by Rahima Mohamed, Casey Allen, Candy Hathaway, and Sarah Jenkins, as the Kits delivered a dominant display to claim three crucial points and reassert their presence in the league.
We were also pleased to see former player Imy Sanders make an appearance for Melton following her transfer earlier in October. Imy was a fantastic asset to our club, and while she has chosen to move on to seek more playing opportunities and further her development, she leaves with our full support and best wishes. She knows she’s always welcome back — once part of the DPC Family, always part of the DPC Family.
This week, the side also got into the spirit of the season by celebrating Halloween in style with a themed training session on Wednesday evening at Elizabeth Park, Thurmaston. The girls dressed up and took part in spooky football drills and fun competitions, enjoying all the scary goings-on. The club voted Freya’s Oompa Loompa costume as the best on the night — a well-deserved win for creativity and commitment to the theme!
This weekend, the Kits welcome Harborough Town Imps to Roundhill, aiming to build on that momentum with another confident performance. The Imps are a young side still searching for their first win of the season, but the Kits know there are no easy games — focus, teamwork, and intensity will once again be key to securing victory.
A CHAT WITH
VICKY MARRIOTT
Vicky returned to the kits team this summer after giving birth and has been a welcome face in the team. Her calming nature along with her strength and determination is something that the whole team is influenced by.
A – ALL-time favourite football player
My favourite player growing up was David Beckham.
B – What BOOTS do you wear & your preferred BOOT BRAND
I wear sondico blaze. I literally bought a cheap pair of boots to get back into football 2 years ago and been wearing them since. They do the job! Not sure about preferred boot brand, whatever looks good! I will treat myself to some new ones once these have ran their course.
C – Your go to CELEBRATION when you score?
I don’t really score in my position but if I did I would probably do a fist pump or something
D – Who is the worst DANCER in the squad?
I don’t know tbh, but I’d probably say me as I’m stiff as a board and think gun fingers are appropriate.
J
– Who is the biggest JOKER on the team?
Probably Freya.
K – What KIT number do you love to wear & why?
Normally 22 this season because it’s the nicest fit!
E – What do you like to EAT before a game?
Protein yoghurt and a red bull
F – Who has the worst FASHION sense in the squad?
Sorry Demi!
G – What is the best GOAL you have ever scored?
I scored a decent goal last season for the kits but can’t really remember how
H – How do you keep yourself HYDRATED & HEALTHY throughout a season?
Drink plenty of water and try not to have too much sugar
L – What is the biggest LESSON that football has taught you?
To work as a team because team work makes the dream work and also have confidence in your ability!
M – What is your go to pre match MUSIC?
Whatever is on in the changing room but on the journey there a bit of dance / afrobeats !
N – Who is the NICEST player in the squad?
Everyone’s nice but I’d say Sarah as she goes above and beyond for the team and is very generous
I – Who is the biggest INSPIRATION in your life & why?
My daughter Harley and my fiancée Michelle, they inspire me to be the best version of me.
O – Can you describe your personality in ONE word? Calm.
P – What is your favourite POSITION to play?
I liked playing as a striker but I do quite enjoy being in defence so wherever really
Q – What is the best QUALITY you need in a teammate? Communication.
R – How do you normally deal with a REFEREE’S tough decision?
Just accept it and move on.
S – Which football club did you grow up SUPPORTING?
Leicester city
T – What TV-SHOW are you currently watching?
Celebrity Traitors
U – What is the most UNFORGETTABLE moment of your football career?
Probably scoring the goal last season. I was buzzing after that
V – VACATION spot you’d love to visit after the season?
Greece
W – WHO is your best friend in the team & why?
I like to think I get on with everyone. There all a good bunch
X – What is the worst injury (X-RAY) of your football career?
Touch wood I haven’t had one yet. I took a ball to the face last season though and that hurt
Y – How many YEARS have you played football for?
I played as a kid but only got back into football the last 2 years
Z – What is your ZODIAC sign and do you believe it matches your personality on the pitch?
I’m a Leo and their traits are loyal and confident so yeah I will take it
Vicky Marriott
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE VIXENS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Women’s league division 1
Sport in Desford, Packleton Lane. LE9 9JU Kick Off - 14:00
The Vixens will be looking to bounce back this weekend after a disappointing 4–1 defeat away at Brookside Athletic. Despite heading into the fixture full of confidence, a few injuries left the squad looking uncharacteristically sluggish, and they found themselves 3–0 down at half-time.
A much-improved second-half performance saw the Vixens hit back almost immediately after the restart, scoring within 30 seconds and dominating possession for large spells. However, despite their efforts, they
couldn’t turn their control into goals and ultimately left empty-handed. The result was a frustrating one — but with lessons learned, the team will be determined to respond in style. That setback came just a week after a thrilling and dominant 5–2 victory over unbeaten Birstall United at Hoby Road — one of the standout performances of the season so far. Facing a highflying Birstall side tipped as early title contenders, the Vixens knew they’d need
to be at their best — and they delivered.
After a bright start from Birstall, Thurmaston soon took control, and the breakthrough came when new signing Fran Miller cut inside and squared perfectly for Barnes to slot home. The midfield battle was fierce, but the Vixens continued to win their duels and push forward.
When Ludlow struck from outside the box, her looping effort seemed comfortable for the keeper — but the rain-soaked ball slipped through her gloves and into the net. Moments later, Bird unleashed a thunderous strike from distance to make it three before the break.
Birstall came out fighting in the second half, changing formation and pulling two
goals back to put the pressure on. But the Vixens dug deep, showing resilience and composure to ride the storm. Their persistence paid off when Miller broke through again on the counter, restoring the cushion and regaining control. As Birstall’s frustrations boiled over — resulting in a player, a coach, and another sent to the sin bin — the Vixens stayed calm and sealed the win with another superb finish from Player of the Match Fran Miller, set up brilliantly by Bird.
It was a performance full of character, teamwork, and attacking flair — everything this group is capable of. Now, after a tough setback last week, the Vixens will be eager to rediscover that form and get back to winning ways.
2025/26 SQUAD
EVIE’S SUPERFANS
ABBIE SANDLE
LUDLOW
MORGAN BIRD MOLLY CARTER
NIALL CARTER
ANNIE BARNES
HOLLY JACKSON
MARRIAM RAWEL
LAUREN BRACEY
HONOUR SLATER
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SOPHIE HOWARD
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RAHIMA MOHAMED
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AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP VICKY MARRIOTT
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KATIE STONE
NADIA KARMADA
FREYA COOKE
JODIE HILL
SARAH JENKINS
DANIELLE LEE
LIBBIE TAYLOR
KYRA OLDFIELD
LAUREN HEMS
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KAISEY HIGGOTT
CASEY ALLEN DEMI ANDREWS
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP MADISON WARNER
DANIELLE HAY
SOPHIE HOWARD
HONOUR SLATER
LEAH WHEELER
IMOGEN SANDERS
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BROGAN
CANDICE-MARIE HATHAWAY
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JADE HOWDEN
CHLOE MCDERMOTT
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NATALIE FRIDAY
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FRANCES MILLER
CHLOE MAITLAND
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A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR CLUB SPONSORS
VIXENS HOME KIT SPONSOR
CLUB & DEVELOPMENT SPONSORS
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.
