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
What a result for our Vixens last week. With the league table so tight at the top and Oakham in excellent form, this was always going to be a stern test. Oakham are a side who make scoring goals look effortless; despite suffering two league defeats this season, they had still found the net at least three times in every game they played.
In difficult, blustery conditions, our Vixens produced a superb team performance. They battled relentlessly, limited Oakham to just one goal, and showed real quality at the other end to secure a deserved 2–1 victory. I couldn’t be prouder of the group. The performance was full of resilience, desire, and hunger — everything you want to see from a team competing at the top end of the league.
The men also kicked off 2026 in positive fashion with a well-earned win over Allexton & New Parks. Consistency has been hard to come by this season, so starting the new year with a strong result is a real boost and sets a solid platform for what’s still to come. This weekend they host Quorn Park Rangers, who narrowly edged the reverse fixture earlier in the season. Revenge will certainly be on the agenda — especially with the sides set to meet again in the cup next weekend.
The Kits game fell victim to last week’s storm and was postponed, meaning they now travel to league leaders Hinckley this weekend. It will be a tough challenge, but there have been plenty of positives coming out of training, and the squad are prepared and ready for the battle ahead.
The Vixens are back in action at home this weekend as they host River City in the County Cup. Another tough test for a side that seems to be facing challenge after challenge at the moment. River City compete in the Midlands League and have been well established there for several seasons, so we know they’ll bring something different to what we’ve faced recently. We’re also looking forward to welcoming back the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, Jadie Stones, who returns to Thurmo for the first time since her move to River City last season. Jadie also cuts my hair, so I’ll avoid saying anything too harsh — but it will be great to see her back on the pitch, even if she is wearing the wrong colours.
As always, stay safe, stay dry, and stay warm — but above all, Viva La Thurmo..
Viva La Thurmo!
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE VIXENS
ABACUS Flooring Solutions Womens County Cup Round 3
Wreake valley Academy Parkstone Road, LE7 1LY Kick Off - 14:00
The Vixens continued their impressive start to the season with a superb 2–1 victory over Oakham United.
Oakham arrived in confident mood and, with the wind firmly at their backs, dominated territory for much of the first half, pinning the Vixens deep inside their own half. Despite creating several dangerous chances on the break, the visitors were repeatedly denied by an outstanding Zoe Hill, who produced a series of top-class saves and looked unbeatable between the posts. At the other end, the Vixens also threatened,
only to be frustrated by some excellent goalkeeping from Oakham’s number one. Against the run of the Vixens’ disciplined defensive performance, Oakham struck just before the interval with a swift counter-attack, taking a 1–0 lead into half-time.
The second half, however, belonged to the Vixens. From the restart, they played with real intent, pushing Oakham back and creating early opportunities. On the school’s 4G surface — where the wheels can sometimes feel as narrow as the goalposts — the Vixens thought
they had found an immediate equaliser. Undeterred, they kept pressing, and their persistence was rewarded when the Mops and Annie partnership combined, with Mops firing home to level the scores.
From that moment on, there was only one team pushing for the winner. The decisive moment came when Annie Barnes showed great composure to finish clinically and put the Vixens ahead. Oakham applied late pressure in search of an equaliser, but the Vixens’ defence stood firm to see out a deserved and impressive victory.
It was a fantastic result and performance against an Oakham side who had scored three or more goals in every league game this season — until they came up against our Vixens.
Player of the Match was deservedly awarded to the outstanding Lauren Bracey, who delivered a defensive masterclass and looked prepared to run through brick walls for her teammates.
Attention now turns away from the league as the Vixens face River City this week, with a place in the County Cup quarterfinals at stake. It has already been an impressive season, but this presents yet another tough test. River City will be eager to use this fixture to boost morale and kick-start their campaign, while the Vixens once again go into the tie as underdogs — just the way we like it.
A
CHAT WITH
HONOUR SLATER
Honour has quickly become a firm favourite within the squad, never short of a quick witty comment or a thought-provoking question. On the pitch, her innocent appearance is deceptive. Blessed with blistering pace and a real threat in and around the box, she has an uncanny ability to create chances. As the season has progressed, her confidence has continued to grow — and with it, her impact on games.
A – ALL-time favourite football player?
3 clues: played in America, has the loudest cackle, and currently doesn’t have an ACL.
B – What BOOTS do you wear & your preferred BOOT BRAND?
I wear Nike boots, no idea what they are but as long as I can kick a ball in them and they look nice, I’m happy.
C – Your go to CELEBRATION when you score?
Would be running to celebrate with the girls!
D – Who is the worst DANCER in the squad? Westy.
E – What do you like to EAT before a game?
A bacon sandwich or anything on a bagel.
F – Who has the worst FASHION sense in the squad?
Sorry it’s going to be you Westy, I can’t pick out of any of the girls
G – What is the best GOAL you have ever scored?
This would be a goal at my previous club, it was from just outside of the box.
H – How do you keep yourself HYDRATED & HEALTHY throughout a season?
Definitely having a laugh with my friends keeps me healthy haha, but exercising, eating healthily & drinking lots of water!
I – Who is the biggest INSPIRATION in your life & why?
Probably my dad. He’s been a rock in my life & gives great advice.
J – Who is the biggest JOKER on the team?
This is a hard one but I’d give it to AbbieI’m always laughing when I’m with her !!
K – What KIT number do you love to wear & why?
9 or 12 as my dad & brother wear these numbers when they play.
L – What is the biggest LESSON that football has taught you?
To me, football is all about having fun and spending time with my mates. I obviously want to win but enjoying it comes first for me..
M – What is your go to pre match MUSIC?
Olivia Dean, RAYE or ABBA obviously.
N – Who is the NICEST player in the squad?
Bracey & Sophie made such an effort with me when I first joined!!
O – Can you describe your personality in ONE word?
Curious - I always have a question to ask.
P – What is your favourite POSITION to play?
On the wing.
Q
– What is the best QUALITY you need in a teammate?
To be hardworking & to never give up
R – How do you normally deal with a REFEREE’S tough decision?
Moan about it on the way home to Seats.
S – Which football club did you grow up SUPPORTING?
Preston North End.
T – What TV-SHOW are you currently watching?
The Traitors!!!
U – What is the most UNFORGETTABLE moment of your football/Thurmaston career?
Probably praying for everyone’s Sunday lunch after a game.
V – VACATION spot you’d love to visit after the season?
No plans yet but I’m sure I’ll be back in Devon.
W – WHO is your best friend in the team & why?
I instantly clicked with Maz, Annie, Abbie & Jess - they make me laugh everyday.
X – What is the worst injury (X-RAY) of your football career?
Probably my endless shin splints that will never go away - any tips welcome xx
Y – How many YEARS have you played football for?
I properly started playing football in 2024.
Z – What is your ZODIAC sign and do you believe it matches your personality on the pitch?
According to Google I’m a Pisces. Apparently I’m highly emotional, sounds about right.
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE KITS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Division 2
Last week’s Kits fixture fell victim to the storm, but it has done little to dampen the spirits of a side who appear to be building momentum of their own on the training ground. With each passing week under new manager Andy, the Kits are looking stronger, more confident, and increasingly positive. Fresh ideas, fresh faces, and a renewed enthusiasm are clearly running through the group, and that energy will be vital as they head to Hinckley this weekend. Their opponents sit comfortably at the top of the Division 2 table and present
a formidable challenge. Hinckley are not only prolific going forward, creating chances and scoring freely, but they also boast an impressive defensive record. Unbeaten in the league, they will provide a stern test for the Kits — but one the side will relish.
Positivity will be key, and right now the Kits are brimming with it. With the progress made in recent weeks, they travel this weekend ready to put everything they’ve learned into practice.
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
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
RAHIMA MOHAMED
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
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
ALYS BROGAN
SOPHIE HOWARD
HONOUR SLATER
LEAH WHEELER
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
CANDICE-MARIE HATHAWAY
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
ANALEICE WILKES
CHLOE MAITLAND
IMOGEN SANDERS
JADE HOWDEN
CHLOE MCDERMOTT
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
NATALIE FRIDAY
2025/26 SQUAD
FRANCES MILLER
KELSEY SMITH
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
GRACE ALLEN
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
SOPHIE SBARDELLA
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
LAUREN CUNNINGHAM
ROSIE SPENCER
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
MEGAN THACKER
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
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.
RIVER CITY WOMEN (H)
SUNDAY 18TH JANUARY 2026
COUNTY CUP
BROOKSIDE ATHLETIC (H)
SUNDAY 25TH JANUARY 2026
EAST GOSCOTE (A) SUNDAY 1ST FEBRUARY 2026
BIRSTALL UNITED (A) SUNDAY 8TH FEBRUARY 2026
HARBOROUGH TOWN (H) SUNDAY 22ND FEBRUARY 2026
UPCOMING KITS FIXTURES
HINKLEY LADIES (A) SUNDAY 18TH JANUARY 2026
HINKLEY LADIES (H) SUNDAY 25TH JANUARY 2026
MARLBOROUGH ROVERS (A) SUNDAY 1ST FEBRUARY 2026
BLABY & WHETSTONE (A) SUNDAY 8TH FEBRUARY 2026
MELTON FOXES (H) SUNDAY 15TH FEBRUARY 2026
ASFORDBY AMATEURS (A) SUNDAY 22ND FEBRUARY 2026
LEAGUE TABLE
LEICESTERSHIRE WOMENS AND GIRLS DIVISION 1
LEAGUE TABLE
LEICESTERSHIRE WOMENS AND GIRLS DIVISION 2
NEXT WEEK’S FIXTURES
SUNDAY 25TH JANUARY 2026
Men v Quorn Park Rangers
Vixens v Brookside Athletic Kits v Hinckley Ladies
