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 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.
• Andy Dengate takes over the Kits side from 2026.
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
Another week brings another edition of the magazine — and what a start to 2026 it has been for the club.
The men’s side have opened the year in outstanding fashion, remaining unbeaten and earning well-deserved recognition as the Leicester & Charnwood Sunday Football League Team of the Month for January. On top of that achievement, they’ve been accepted into the invitational trophy to round off the season, giving the squad another exciting target after a challenging opening period. I was fortunate enough to join the team for their cup tie against Quorn Park Rangers a few weeks ago, and the belief within the group was clear. Attention now turns to next weekend’s quarter-final, which the players are eager to attack with confidence.
Today’s cover fixture sees the Kits host Melton Foxes. While the visitors currently sit bottom of the table, this is no time for complacency — it’s an opportunity for the team to turn their recent hard work into performance. Since Andy took charge, the squad’s response has been fantastic. New additions have strengthened the group, while consistent numbers have provided the stability every competitive side needs in Division 2. Seeing strong attendance at training week after
week highlights the positive culture Andy is building, and the momentum within the squad is unmistakable.
Meanwhile, the Vixens travel to Dunton & Broughton for another major test this season. They go into the match as underdogs against an East Midlands Division 1 side sitting third in their league — a division above us. The challenge is significant, but the occasion itself is historic. Reaching the county cup quarter-final marks the furthest any DPC side has progressed in the competition. It’s a fantastic chance to measure ourselves against higher-ranked opposition and continue building belief. Looking ahead, next Sunday promises to be a special occasion as we host our first Thurmo Day at Asfordby. The men face FC Poplar in a divisional cup quarter-final, followed by the Vixens taking on Harborough Town in a league clash. With the Kits also playing nearby at Asfordby Amateurs, it creates the perfect opportunity for all our teams and supporters to come together for a full day of football. The bar will be open, with pool tables, darts, and food available — a true football family day. I’d love to see as many of you there as possible..
Viva La Thurmo!
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE VIXENS
ABACUS Flooring Solutions Womens County Cup Quarter Final
Broughton Astley Leisure Centre LE9 6AZ Kick Off - 14:00
The Vixens have faced plenty of tough challenges this season, and this weekend presents another big one. A County Cup quarter-final sees the side travel to take on East Midlands Division 1 outfit Dunton & Broughton. Their place in the last eight follows an impressive victory over fellow East Midlands side River City in the previous round. Having already tested themselves against three higher-division opponents this season, the Vixens now face another valuable benchmark.
The hosts currently sit third in their league, with nine wins from thirteen matches, a clear sign of their quality. While they remain something of an
unknown quantity, the Vixens know they will need to be at their sharpest to earn a result and book a semi-final place. Just as importantly, this tie offers a welcome change of focus from league action before a demanding run of fixtures between now and the end of the season.
Whatever the outcome, this Vixens squad continues to prove its resilience and ability to compete with and trouble teams from higher divisions. There is still plenty of development ahead, and the group is far from reaching its ceiling. This weekend is another opportunity to measure progress against strong opposition and show just how far they have come.
A CHAT WITH
NADIA KARMADA
Nardy is in her 4th season with the club and has become a well established member of the club. Well respected within the kits team, she has been able to use her experience to help and support her younger teammates with her kind and caring nature as well as her talent and leadership on the pitch.
A – ALL-time favourite football player?
Thierry Henry
B – What BOOTS do you wear & your preferred BOOT BRAND?
Switched things up this season with Adidas Predators… lifelong Nike girl, but I’m converted.
C – Your go to CELEBRATION when you score?
I don’t have a specific celebration but I normally just run to whoever is there and hug it out I guess.
D – Who is the worst DANCER in the squad?
I’ve heard Westy has some questionable moves!
E – What do you like to EAT before a game?
Preferably something with eggs. It would be fish fingers but Zoe told me fish fingers are not a breakfast thing. I do not agree.
F – Who has the worst FASHION sense in the squad?
I’m going with Freya on this one because she always turns up in weird house slippers.
G – What is the best GOAL you have ever scored? It would have to be a couple of weeks ago against Hinckley.
H – How do you keep yourself HYDRATED & HEALTHY throughout a season?
Electrolytes and plenty of water… Training 2-3 times a week to keep my fitness up!
I – Who is the biggest INSPIRATION in your life & why?
My dad.. he is the reason I started playing football. He has always been my biggest supporter and took me to every game as a kid.
J – Who is the biggest JOKER on the team?
Big shout out to my boy Andy. We have a laugh on and off the pitch and couldn’t be happier that you’re with us!
K – What KIT number do you love to wear & why?
I always get the number 10 thrown at me so I guess that’s my number.
L – What is the biggest LESSON that football has taught you? work makes the dream work!
M – What is your go to pre match MUSIC?
I’m a 90’s R&B kinda girl but whatever is playing in the dressing room I’ll go with it.
N – Who is the NICEST player in the squad?
I’m going to give that to Sarah. We started this journey together and she has always gone above and beyond for us all.
O – Can you describe your personality in ONE word? Calm
P – What is your favourite POSITION to play? Left wing.
Q – What is the best QUALITY you need in a teammate? Communication, a positive attitude and motivation.
R – How do you normally deal with a REFEREE’S tough decision?
I don’t always agree but I just keep it moving.
S – Which football club did you grow up SUPPORTING? Tottenham.
T – What TV-SHOW are you currently watching? Two broke girls
U – What is the most UNFORGETTABLE moment of your football/Thurmaston career?
Just being around a great bunch of girls and being able to play the game we all love!
V – VACATION spot you’d love to visit after the season?
Hawaii has been on my list now for the longest. Might not happen after the season ends but hopefully very soon.
W – WHO is your best friend in the team & why?
My girl Evelyn. She has always been there for me through everything and I know I can always count on her!
X – What is the worst injury (X-RAY) of your football career? When I tore my meniscus horn in my knee a few seasons ago. Felt like my world ended!
Y – How many YEARS have you played football for?
I played as a kid for my school team then took a very long break. Got back into football when I turned 30.
Z – What is your ZODIAC sign and do you believe it matches your personality on the pitch?
I’m a Cancer and it definitely matches who I am! Loyal to my team, emotional when we lose, and ready to fight anyone who touches my teammates… proper Cancer behaviour!
Sponsored by
Nadia Karmada
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE KITS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Division 2
Wreake Valley Academy, Syston, LE7 1LY Kick Off - 14:00
Last week the Kits suffered a narrow 3–2 defeat away at Blaby & Whetstone after conceding a late goal in a closely fought contest.
The first half was evenly matched, with both sides creating chances but unable to find a breakthrough, and the teams went into the break level.
The Kits opened the scoring in the second half when Libbie-Mae Taylor produced a superb strike that looped over the Blaby & Whetstone goalkeeper to give the visitors the advantage.
The hosts responded quickly to level the match before edging ahead from the penalty spot following a late challenge near the edge of the box. The Kits soon found a way back when Libbie-Mae
Taylor was brought down in a similar area, stepping up herself to convert the penalty and restore parity.
With the game seemingly heading for a draw, Blaby & Whetstone struck late. A lofted delivery from a short corner found a close-range header that secured all three points for the home side. It was a tough result to take, particularly after periods where we knew we could have performed better. We wish Blaby & Whetstone the best for the rest of the season.
Attention now turns to this weekend, when we host Melton Foxes. Regardless of their league position, Melton always arrive with the right attitude and competitive spirit, and we look forward to welcoming them once again.
ROSS COLLINS
2025/26 SQUAD
EVIE’S SUPERFANS
HONOUR SLATER
SOPHIE HOWARD
ABBIE SANDLE
EMILY LOCKETT
JESS SEATON
GEORGIA SANDERS
ZOE HILL
EVIE LUDLOW
MORGAN BIRD
ANNIE BARNES
HOLLY JACKSON
MARRIAM RAWEL
LAUREN BRACEY
2025/26 SQUAD
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RAHIMA MOHAMED
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KATIE STONE
NADIA KARMADA
FREYA COOKE
JODIE HILL
SARAH JENKINS
DANIELLE LEE
LIBBIE TAYLOR
KYRA OLDFIELD
LAUREN HEMS
VICKY MARRIOTT
DEMI ANDREWS
DANIELLE HAY
CASEY ALLEN
2025/26 SQUAD
KAISEY HIGGOTT
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SOPHIE HOWARD
HONOUR SLATER
ROSIE SPENCER
LEAH WHEELER
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ALYS BROGAN
CANDICE-MARIE HATHAWAY
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ANALEICE WILKES
CHLOE MAITLAND
JADE HOWDEN
CHLOE MCDERMOTT
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NATALIE FRIDAY
2025/26 SQUAD
FRANCES MILLER
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP GRACE ALLEN
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SOPHIE SBARDELLA
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP CLAIRE BALL
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP TAMMY BETTS
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LAUREN CUNNINGHAM
MEGAN THACKER
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP LAUREN GARNER
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP HARRIET QUITTENTON
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP KELSEY SMITH
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP WIKTORIA KABACINSKA
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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.
CHECKING IN WITH
ANDY DENGATE
Andy has been in charge of the kits since the new year, so we thought we should check in and see how he has found his first month in Women’s football.
Having been with the group for just over a month now, it’s clear to me what a great group of girls we have at the Kits.
Being new to women’s football, there’s always the possibility that the group may reject your ideas or take your visions with a pinch of salt, but the team have been very receptive and it’s obvious to me how much they want to learn and improve.
Our opening fixtures together have been challenging, and subsequently results on the pitch have been a mixed bag, as expected. Our availability for both
matches and training have been on the increase, and this can only improve our fitness and chemistry on the pitch.
We’ve brought in a few new faces who have been fantastic to have around the club, in terms of ability and their personalities.
This season is all about building something special, ready to have a real push next season. I’m excited to see what we can do.
