New Thornaby FC Women manager Curtis Collantine is “incredibly excited” to return to the dugout and get the club’s promotion charge back on track as they prepare for a big 2026.
The Blues have endured a frustrating, stop-start period due to weather postponements and cup commitments, meaning they haven’t seen league action since a narrow defeat to leaders Bradford City on November 2.
However, that remains their only defeat of the North-East Regional Women’s League Premier season.
“The vision and ambition this club has is fantastic,” said Collantine. “After understanding where they want to go and the backing they have, I knew this was the right opportunity. We want to make this club the most professional semi-professional team out there.”
Collantine, 33, arrives at Teesdale Park with an impressive footballing resume.
A product of Middlesbrough’s academy, he spent two years as a professional at Bradford City under the likes of Stuart McCall and David Wetherall. His playing career also saw him represent Salisbury, Marske United, Grangetown and Billingham Town.
Since moving into coaching, the Redcar-based UEFA B licence holder has built a formidable reputation. He has coached within Boro’s academy and orchestrated a turnaround at Teesside Erimus FC, transforming a winless side into undefeated league champions.
He also stabilised Grangetown to avoid relegation after taking over as player-manager half way through last season.
The manager is well aware of Thornaby Women’s recent history, noting how the team was nearly lost entirely during the summer of 2024 before a community-led effort saved their existence.
He said: “I remember when it looked like these players wouldn’t get the chance to represent Thornaby again. They defied the odds by becoming champions and gaining promotion last season.
“As soon as I took my first training session, I realised the quality within this group. Combined with their eagerness to learn, I believe we can continue to bring massive success to the club.”
Collantine has set his sights high for the remainder of the campaign, with a clear focus on silverware.
Currently sitting in fourth place, Thornaby find themselves 11 points behind Bradford but with two crucial games in hand. With only six matches played so far, Collantine believes the title race is wide open when they return to action at Sunderland West End on January 4.
He said: “The current position is strong. We have several games in hand and by winning those, we will be in a great position to challenge for the title.
“This season our aim is clear: gain promotion and win the County Cup. I want the team to play with purpose, to be brave on the ball, and to play with intensity and heart.”
After the festive break, the new boss is looking forward to swapping the Christmas turkey for the tactics board.
Collantine said: “I’m looking forward to Christmas with my son – he’s very excited for me to take on this role and can’t wait to come and watch us. But I am even more excited to get back to work with the girls and start 2026 with a bang on January 4.”
