Vixens v East Goscote United Leicester United v Kits
Chairman/Secretary James West
Assistant Secretary/Welfare Emily Lockett
Vixens Manager James West
Kits Manager Andy Dengate
Foxes Manager Dylan Patel
Vixens Assistants Bruce Roe & Jess Seaton
Kits Assistant Sarah Jenkins
Vixens Captain Emily Lockett
Kits Captain Georgia Sanders
Foxes Captain Ben Brown
Vixens Vice Captain Holly Jackson
Kits Vice Captain Freya Cooke
Foxes Vice Captain Kyle Bates
Club Photographers Ben Cook & Imy Sanders
Committee Members
James West
Ben Brown
Dylan Patel
Jodie Hill
Kyle Bates
Emily Lockett
Sarah Jenkins
Zoe Hill
Andy Dengate
A BRIEF HISTORY
ABOUT THE CLUB
The Story of Thurmaston DPC FC
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:
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 8 surpassing 100.
6 men have scored over 50 goals.
On the women’s side, 10 players have made 50+ appearances, with Jadie Stone and more recently Libbie Taylor scoring 50 goals for the club.
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
As we approach the business end of the season, spring has arrived and with it comes crunch time. There is a real buzz around the club right now, with so much still to play for and plenty of excitement building as we head towards the finale.
The men’s side are not in action this weekend, but they still have a busy run of fixtures ahead, including a semi final clash against Birstall Stamford in the coming weeks. A strong run of form has seen the Kits climb to 4th in the league, and with six games remaining, they will be looking to maintain momentum and finish the season on a high.
The Vixens, however, are right at the heart of the title race and that is where the real excitement lies. Heading into this weekend, they sit just one point behind league leaders Kirby Muxloe, with a game in hand. With Kirby in cup action, a victory over East Goscote would see the Vixens go top of the league for the first time this season, a fantastic opportunity that the team will be eager to seize.
Off the pitch, there has been some incredibly exciting news for the club. We are proud to have formed a brand new Female Pathway Partnership with Asfordby FC. This partnership highlights our commitment to developing women’s football within the community and provides a strong platform to inspire, nurture and grow the next generation of players. There is more detail in this weekend’s programme, but it truly marks an exciting step forward for the club.
We recently hosted a free girls’ training
session, which saw 20 young players join us for a morning of fun and football. With girls aged 2 to 12 taking part, it was a brilliant success and a great example of what we are building. We are already planning more sessions in the coming months as we continue to expand our girls’ section and strengthen the pathway into the club.
Of course, it has not all been straightforward, as we have also had to deal with a number of injury setbacks. Katie Stone has unfortunately suffered ligament damage to her knee, while Naomi Abehsera, who recently joined us while recovering from her own knee injury, picked up a muscle tear on her debut against Loughborough. On a more positive note, Jess Seaton is progressing well following knee ligament surgery, and we are hopeful of seeing her back in action next season.
The Kits have also had their share of injury concerns, with Wiktoria Kabacinska and Megan Thacker both sidelined. However, there is good news as Freya Cooke returns from injury and has earned a place back in the Vixens squad for this weekend.
Overall, there is so much to be positive about across our women’s section. With the sun shining and so much at stake, it promises to be another fantastic weekend of football. We would love to see as many of you as possible down supporting the girls this afternoon!
Viva La Thurmo!
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE VIXENS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Division 1
Asfordby Acres, Hoby Road, LE14 3TL Kick Off - 14:00
After a weekend off, the Vixens return to action with a home fixture against East Goscote. This is always a competitive and fiery contest, and East Goscote have more than enough quality to cause an upset.
The objective for the Vixens this weekend is clear. They want to be sitting top of the league by 4pm on Sunday. They know it will not be easy, but the standard has been set and the squad understand exactly what is required, even with an opponent determined to spoil the occasion.
The Vixens’ last outing was a hard fought and scrappy encounter away at Loughborough Foxes, which ended in a 6-4 victory for Thurmaston. A smaller pitch and a slightly weakened side made it difficult for the team to settle early on. Following a controversial decision, they fell 1-0 behind after a penalty was awarded to the hosts.
However, the Vixens gradually found their rhythm and began to show their quality. Libbie Taylor delivered a standout performance, scoring an excellent free kick, calmly converting a penalty, and adding a couple of assists to cap off an impressive display that earned her Player of the Match.
Heading into this weekend, the Vixens will be aiming to replicate the result from the reverse fixture against East Goscote. On that occasion, they also fell behind early but went on to produce a dominant performance, eventually winning 9-1.
Despite that scoreline, the team are fully aware that East Goscote were missing key players that day and will present a much tougher challenge this time around. They are a determined side who work hard for each other and never give up, meaning Thurmaston will need to be at their very best to secure another important result.
Asfordby FC & Thurmaston DPC FC Launch Exciting New Female Pathway Partnership
Asfordby FC and Thurmaston DPC FC are delighted to announce an exciting new Female Pathway Partnership, built on a shared ambition to grow the women’s game, the collaboration will provide structured footballing opportunities for females of all ages and abilities, from first kicks through to open age football for the local community.
The partnership will begin with a series of open taster sessions aimed at encouraging more girls to get involved in football in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment. Sessions will be delivered by qualified coaches alongside inspirational players and representatives from Thurmaston DPC’s established female section, giving young players visible role models and something to aspire to.
This strategic affiliation significantly strengthens both clubs’ player pathways. Girls entering the game at Asfordby FC will now have a clearly defined development route, with the potential to progress through the partnership pathway and into the women’s football pyramid with Thurmaston DPC FC.
Asfordby FC has long been committed to serving its community, operating a thriving junior section with more than 20 teams playing under the Asfordby umbrella. This partnership ensures there is now a dedicated and sustainable pathway for girls within the club structure, supporting the continued growth of female football locally.
James West, Chairman of Thurmaston DPC FC, said:
“I am so excited by this partnership. Our club has always been dedicated to providing footballing opportunities for adults and our female section has grown year on year. This partnership allows us to continue to cement ourselves within the women’s game and inspire the next generation of talent while being able to stay inclusive, develop facilities and opportunities for our community and stay stable and secure as a football club and partnership for years to come. I am honoured to be a part of Asfordby FC who have welcomed us from day one. A friendly, family orientated environment that I am so proud to now officially be a part of.”
Leon Elford, Asfordby FC Chairman said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work in collaboration with Thurmaston DPC FC and look forward to engaging female participants from all of Melton Borough’s communities in an exciting offer that will lead the way for developing women’s football across Leicestershire.
We feel incredibly fortunate to have Thurmaston DPC FC’s first team The Vixens available to deliver training sessions at Asfordby FC which, without a doubt, will empower, motivate, inspire, challenge and transform!”
Thurmaston DPC’s ambitious and growing women’s section provides both inspiration and aspiration. The club currently runs two open age female teams, The Vixens (First Team) proudly play their home fixtures at Hoby Road and The Kits (Development Team) currently play their fixtures in Thurmaston.
Together, the two clubs are committed to inspiring the next generation of Lionesses and ensuring that every girl who wants to play football has the opportunity, support and pathway to succeed. So, if you have an aspiring Lioness at home, or you are an existing girls team looking for a fresh start and an exciting new opportunity, please get in touch. For enquiries, please contact: info@asfordbyfc.com football@thurmastondpc.co.uk thurmastondpc@gmail.com
FROM FIRST KICKS TO OPEN AGE FOOTBALL
A CHAT WITH
ALYS BROGAN
Alyshas grown week on week this season, with the vixens having many injury issues earlier in the seaosn, she found herself filling in at left back and has made the position her own! A quiet character in the changing room, this is the best way to hear about what she thinks of things!
A – ALL-time favourite football player?
I always loved Michael Owen as a kid.
B – What BOOTS do you wear & your preferred BOOT BRAND?
Nike Phantom Elite - Nike
C – Your go to CELEBRATION when you score?
It doesn’t happen too often, but throw my arms up in the air and hug the closest person to me.
D – Who is the worst DANCER in the squad?
Westy, you have some very dodgy moves.
E – What do you like to EAT before a game?
Sausage, egg, smashed avocado in a wrap.
F – Who has the worst FASHION sense in the squad?
I’m going to have to say Zoe because she is the Mum of the group, loves a dress and tights
K – What KIT number do you love to wear & why?
Whatever I am given, I’m not precious about the number I wear.
L – What is the biggest LESSON that football has taught you?
G – What is the best GOAL you have ever scored?
One last season, I can’t remember who it was against but it flew in the top corner (I meant it!).
H – How do you keep yourself HYDRATED & HEALTHY throughout a season?
Going to the gym and drinking lots of water.
I – Who is the biggest INSPIRATION in your life & why?
I don’t really have one, I drive myself to do better and achieve the most out of life.
To be patient & supportive, teamwork makes the dream work..
M – What is your go to pre match MUSIC?
Old school R&B or dance.
N – Who is the NICEST player in the squad?
Zoe, she would never say a bad word about anyone and always so lovely to everyone.
O – Can you describe your personality in ONE word? Quiet.
P – What is your favourite POSITION to play?
Anywhere on the left side.
J – Who is the biggest JOKER on the team?
Libbie-Mae, although a lot of the jokes are about herself HAHA!
Q – What is the best QUALITY you need in a teammate?
Supportive, encouraging and good communication.
R – How do you normally deal with a REFEREE’S tough decision?
Ask for a yellow card, then get on with it.
S – Which football club did you grow up SUPPORTING?
Leicester City
T – What TV-SHOW are you currently watching?
The Night Agent
U – What is the most UNFORGETTABLE moment of your football/Thurmaston career?
Being part of the FA cup journey with everyone, it felt special.
V – VACATION spot you’d love to visit after the season?
I’d love to go to the Bahamas but I am going to Skopelos (where Mama Mia was made).
W – WHO is your best friend in the team & why?
Danielle & Libbie-Mae but I have made a lovely group of friends since joining the team.
X – What is the worst injury (X-RAY) of your football career?
No serious injuries, lots of cuts and bruises.
Y – How many YEARS have you played football for?
I played for about 10 years when I was younger but stopped for 13 years before joining Thurmaston last season.
Z – What is your ZODIAC sign and do you believe it matches your personality on the pitch?
I am a Libra, I have no idea if it matches my personality!
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE KITS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Division 2
Blaby Road Park, Blaby Road, Wigston LE18 4PA Kick Off - 14:00
The Kits are full of confidence at the moment. Despite a number of injury concerns, Dengate’s side have won three games in a row and have produced an impressive run of form since Andy took charge at the start of the year. With five wins, two draws and just two defeats, it is a strong record, and they will be aiming to make it four consecutive victories this weekend away at Leicester United.
Injuries have once again had an impact on the squad going into this fixture, and with Freya Cooke also stepping up to join the first team, there is a real opportunity for others to step in, make their mark and push for a place in the starting line-up.
One player who has already done exactly that is Tammy Betts. Since joining the Kits, she has added a real attacking threat and has made an immediate
impact, contributing six goals and four assists in just five appearances. Her influence in the final third has been a huge boost for the team.
Off the pitch, the squad recently enjoyed a valuable team building day, with a group heading to Nottingham to watch the Lionesses in action. While the game itself may not have been the most exciting, it proved to be a great evening for the group, rounded off with some karaoke that revealed a few unexpected vocal talents, and perhaps a few who should stick to football.
With spirits high and momentum on their side, the Kits will be looking to carry this positivity into the weekend and continue their strong run of form.
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
JOSIE OLDFIELD
RAHIMA MOHAMED
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
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
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
SOPHIE HOWARD
HONOUR SLATER
ROSIE SPENCER
LEAH WHEELER
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
ALYS BROGAN
CANDICE-MARIE HATHAWAY
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ANALEICE WILKES
CHLOE MAITLAND
JADE HOWDEN
CHLOE MCDERMOTT
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
NATALIE FRIDAY
2025/26 SQUAD
FRANCES MILLER
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP GRACE ALLEN
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
SOPHIE SBARDELLA
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP CLAIRE BALL
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP TAMMY BETTS
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
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.
