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.
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
Happy December! With Christmas fast approaching and the winter break just a couple of weeks away, there’s still a handful of important fixtures to navigate before we can all put our feet up. This weekend is a welcome sight, as all three of our teams are in action for what feels like the first time in quite a while. The men travel for a league match against Born Ballers, while both women’s sides enjoy home advantage, the Vixens hosting Saffron Dynamo and the Kits welcoming Coalville Town Ravenettes.
Last weekend saw the Vixens return to winning ways with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Saffron Dynamo. It was a tight contest throughout, and it took until the 80th minute for Libbie Taylor to strike the decisive goal and secure all three points.
The Kits had a week off, which provided an excellent opportunity to reward two of their standout performers with call-ups to the first team for our fixture against Saffron. Madi Warner, who joined us from Birstall United earlier this season, has made a significant impact. Her experience, creativity, and ability to both score and assist have been invaluable. She earned a place in the starting XI on Sunday and delivered a fantastic performance.
We also promoted Lauren Hems, who has consistently impressed since arriving at the club this year. Although I haven’t had many chances to coach her directly, the positive feedback from teammates and club captain Emily Lockett highlighted that she deserved the opportunity. After
featuring for the Kits in their county cup tie against Market Bosworth, Lauren stepped into the first-team game seamlessly. Coming off the bench in the first half, she took control of the midfield with confidence. Despite admitting she was exhausted at full-time, you’d never have guessed it. Her composure on the ball made everything look effortless, and her contribution was vital to the result. It’s been brilliant to see players from the Kits being recognised for their development and stepping into the first-team environment. Several Kits players have also been attending Vixens training sessions, pushing themselves in a competitive and demanding setting. Their commitment and desire to improve have been fantastic to witness.
Turning to the men’s side, results have been hard to come by this season. While performances have shown promise, the points haven’t followed. I caught up with Dylan a few weeks ago, and the squad enjoyed a much-needed team social this week. It sounds like they had a positive evening together, some bonding, some laughs, and a boost in morale. Hopefully that renewed spirit translates into a strong performance this weekend. As always, we are incredibly grateful to everyone who comes out to support our teams, especially during these cold winter weeks. Your encouragement means more than you know. Every cheer gives our players that extra bit of belief.
Viva La Thurmo!
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE VIXENS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Division 1
Wreake valley Academy Parkstone Road, LE7 1LY Kick Off - 14:00
Momentum finally seems to be building. After a stop–start feel to the season, the Vixens are back in action this weekend following a strong performance last time out. The opposition will be familiar, as we once again take on Saffron Dynamo—this time with them travelling to face us. Saffron have already proven themselves tough competitors this season, having taken points off top-of-the-league Oakham. They’re a potential banana skin for any side, and the Vixens will be determined not to slip up.
In our previous meeting, the Vixens struck late to secure a 1–0 victory. A dangerous ball in from Morgan Bird was flicked on by Danielle Lee and calmly finished by Libbie Taylor. It was a fitting moment for Libbie, who captained the side on her 50th appearance for the club. Last season’s top scorer, she has an incredible return of 46 goals and 26 assists in those 50 matches. She continues to
be a constant attacking threat and a key contributor to our success. Congratulations to Libbie on becoming the latest member of the 50 Club.
This weekend’s match will take place at Wreake Valley. Due to the recent heavy rainfall, our usual home ground at Asfordby has suffered, as have many pitches across the county. To ensure the safest and best playing conditions, we’re switching to Wreake Valley’s 4G surface for this fixture.
Our visitors, who won Division 2 on goal difference last season, demonstrated exactly why in last week’s match. Their fast, counter-attacking play caused real challenges for the Vixens, and we’ll need to be at our absolute best once again to handle their threat.
It may well be a wet one this weekend, so wrap up warm and stay dry— your support means everything!
A CHAT WITH
DANIELLE LEE
One of last season’s success stories, Dan has gone from a shy player in the kits team to a staple in the vixens line up. From defender, to Hyrox competitor and marathon runner, She is always staying active, we managed to find 5 minutes in her busy schedule.
A – ALL-time favourite football player?
Probably David Beckham growing up.
B – What BOOTS do you wear & your preferred BOOT BRAND?
Nike & Nike, why are adidas so narrow!!!
C – Your go to CELEBRATION when you score?
This dosen’t happen often so whatever comes over me at the time…
D – Who is the worst DANCER in the squad?
No comment, this is violation.
E – What do you like to EAT before a game?
Bagel with Jam (if I eat before).
F – Who has the worst FASHION sense in the squad?
I actually think everyone dresses well, but equally all different.
G – What is the best GOAL you have ever scored?
That overhead kick the other week….jokes no idea, as I say it don’t happen often.
H – How do you keep yourself HYDRATED & HEALTHY throughout a season?
Go to the gym and live on orange squash.
I – Who is the biggest INSPIRATION in your life & why?
One of my very good friends who I sadly lost when she was 32, she made me realise life is way too short&anything can happen overnight
J – Who is the biggest JOKER on the team?
Libbie when she’s in a good mood (don’t catch her in a bad mood).
K – What KIT number do you love to wear & why?
3 as it’s my lucky number but I wear number 2, thanks Westy
L – What is the biggest LESSON that football has taught you?
That a Sunday isn’t complete without a Sunday match!
M – What is your go to pre match MUSIC?
The FA Cup playlist is a huge hit
N – Who is the NICEST player in the squad? Morgan, also so helpful on the pitch when you’re out of a natural position!
O – Can you describe your personality in ONE word? Sarcastic, very sarcastic.
P – What is your favourite POSITION to play? Defence in general
Q – What is the best QUALITY you need in a teammate? Good communication.
R – How do you normally deal with a REFEREE’S tough decision?
Just shout “reffffff”
S – Which football club did you grow up SUPPORTING? Leicester City.
T – What TV-SHOW are you currently watching? I’m a celeb.
U – What is the most UNFORGETTABLE moment of your football/Thurmaston career?
The FA Cup journey, this is a journey I will not forget! What a run!!
V – VACATION spot you’d love to visit after the season? Ibiza for round 2.
W – WHO is your best friend in the team & why?
Libbie-Mae (had to say her whole name because she hates it) she is honestly there for me come rain or shine.
X – What is the worst injury (X-RAY) of your football career?
An elbow to my eye socket and the ref said it was my fault, that was a nice look for the month.
Y – How many YEARS have you played football for?
Only been back playing for 2 years after 16 years out!
Z – What is your ZODIAC sign and do you believe it matches your personality on the pitch?
Pieces - no I wouldn’t say so, I’m softer off the pitch than I am on it
Sponsored by
Danielle Lee
THIS WEEKEND’S FIXTURES
THE VIXENS
Leicestershire women’s & girls football league Division 1
Wreake valley Academy Parkstone Road, LE7 1LY Kick Off - 14:00
After a week off, the Kits return to action and are back on home turf at Roundhill. It marks the beginning of a new chapter for the team as they edge closer to announcing a new manager following the departure of Sarah Jenkins. In the meantime, club captain Emily Lockett has been pursuing her coaching ambitions by helping to oversee training sessions. Her passion and energy have already had a positive impact on the squad, and the team is excited to get going again this weekend.
The Kits welcome second-placed Coalville Town to Roundhill—a side that has lost just once this season and looks every bit a title contender. The teams have already faced each other twice this campaign,
with Coalville coming out on top both times. Back on home soil, the Kits will be aiming to produce a strong performance against one of the division’s toughest sides and hopefully cause an upset. Meetings between these teams are always fiercely contested, and we expect nothing different this weekend. Coalville will arrive confident and hungry for another win, but we believe our Kits have the grit and determination to challenge them and create problems.
With only two matches left before the Christmas break, the Kits will be eager to finish 2025 on a high and add some valuable points to the table before the festive pause.
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
2025/26 SQUAD
SOPHIE HOWARD
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RAHIMA MOHAMED
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AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP VICKY MARRIOTT
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
KATIE STONE
NADIA KARMADA
FREYA COOKE
JODIE HILL
SARAH JENKINS
DANIELLE LEE
LIBBIE TAYLOR
KYRA OLDFIELD
LAUREN HEMS
2025/26 SQUAD
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
2025/26 SQUAD
FRANCES MILLER
CHLOE MAITLAND
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GRACE ALLEN
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SOPHIE SBARDELLA
AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP MEGAN THACKER
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AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP LAUREN CUNNINGHAM
ROSIE SPENCER
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KELSEY SMITH
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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.
