There’s a buzz around Teesdale Park, where Thornaby FC hope to achieve something special in the New Year.
The Blues are chasing promotion on two fronts, men and women, with a ‘one club’ mentality.
Deano Browne’s men, competing in the Ebac Northern League Division Two, have been a force to be reckoned with so far.
Building on last season’s strong foundation that already contained Thornaby lads such as Reece Littlefair, they’ve added key players like striker Elliott Beddow, who has returned on loan from neighbours Stockton Town.
“We’ve got a great mix,” says Browne. “The lads are hungry, and they’re playing with a real sense of purpose. We just want to make sure that continues.”
The women’s team, after nearly folding in the summer, are hitting big heights.
Under the guidance of managers Claire Streeter and Abbey Lyle, boosted by the recruitment of players like Sophie Curle and Abby Robson by director of football Andy Campbell, they’re serious title contenders in the North East Regional League.
“We’ve built a fantastic squad with a real winning mentality,” says Streeter. “The girls are determined to prove themselves.”
Their recent FA Cup run, which saw them defeated by Liverpool Feds in the first round proper, attracted a record crowd of nearly 300 on Acklam Road.
Local business support from the likes of Scott Bros, Durata, Wander, GM Flooring, Hartburn Roofing, Bombshell Designs, The Little Acre and The Ship at Redmarshall have been key, along with agreements with Specsavers, Klarna and a kit deal with Nike.
“The support from our sponsors has been invaluable,” says CEO Alison McGee, a Durata director, who joined the board in the summer.
“It’s allowed us to invest in the club’s infrastructure and provides sound foundations for us to strengthen the squad of players we have here.”
Thornaby’s junior section is beginning to thrive too, with plans for expansion.
The Under-16 girls are unbeaten in the Russell Foster League, while the Under-11s and Under-12s are passionate supporters of the senior teams and doing well in the Teesside Junior Football Alliance.
“They’re the future of the club,” said Rachel Stonehouse, club secretary. “Their enthusiasm is infectious, and they embody the ‘one club’ ethos we’re building here.”
Thornaby have announced a half-season ticket offer designed to attract more fans ahead of the promotion run-ins. Tickets are just £10 for adults and £2.50 for children.
Campbell, the former Middlesbrough and Cardiff striker, said: “There is a real family feel around the place. It’s a real joy to be part of and everyone is pushing in the same direction to strive for that end goal for both men and women sections. It’s an exciting time to be a part of Thornaby FC.”
