Champions! The Rebirth of Nuneaton Town Football Club: Mark Lacrouts and Russell Dodd

Apr 13, 2025

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📅 Episode Summary:
This episode features two key figures behind one of English football’s most inspiring turnarounds: Mark Lacrouts and Russell Dodd of Nuneaton Town Football Club. Following the club’s liquidation and collapse in early 2024, a determined group of fans and community leaders rebuilt the club from the ground up—literally.

With no players, no ground, and just a vision, the new Nuneaton Town FC was born. And within months, against all odds, they were crowned champions of the Midland Football League Division 1 at Step 6! This is a story of resilience, community spirit, and the heart of non-league football.

🗣️ In This Episode:

How Mark and Russell got into football and their personal connections to Nuneaton
The financial and logistical collapse of the original club
What it took to start a new club from scratch (CIC model, volunteer efforts, player recruitment)
The unique dynamic of joint management between Russell Dodd and Darren Acton
Achieving success on the pitch faster than anyone imagined
Building a community-first culture: players, fans, and families all pulling together
Transparency, budgeting, and sustainable growth strategies
The ultimate goal: returning home to Nuneaton and building a new stadium
The long-term vision for youth, women's teams, and local engagement
Why non-league football is so vital and vibrant

🏟️ Upcoming Highlights:

Final home game: trophy presentation and club celebration Saturday 19th April 2025
Cup final at Walsall’s stadium on Wednesday 30th April 2025
Aiming for a record-breaking crowd of over 1,000 fans

💬 Quotes:

"I'm a custodian. I'm only here for a short period of time—but if we can set the foundations of a strong club, that's what really matters." - Mark

"We are one club—players, fans, volunteers, the board. No egos, just a shared love of football and this town." - Russell

"Starting a football club from scratch is one of the hardest things you’ll ever do—but also one of the most rewarding." - Mark

"We didn’t just want talented players. We wanted the right people—the ones who would stay after the match, chat with fans, and wear the badge with pride." - Russell

🧭 Useful Links:
🌐 Club Website: https://www.nuneatontownfc.co.uk/
📅 Fixtures & Tickets: Check the website for the final home game and cup final details
📸 Follow the club on social media to stay up to date with the journey;

https://www.facebook.com/NuneatonTFC/

https://www.instagram.com/nuneatontfc

👥 Get Involved:
Whether you’re local or just passing through, everyone is welcome at Nuneaton Town FC. Grab a burger, meet the players, and be part of something special.

Question or comment? Send us a text message.