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

📅 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 NuneatonThe financial and logistical collapse of the original clubWhat 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 ActonAchieving success on the pitch faster than anyone imaginedBuilding a community-first culture: players, fans, and families all pulling togetherTransparency, budgeting, and sustainable growth strategiesThe ultimate goal: returning home to Nuneaton and building a new stadiumThe long-term vision for youth, women"s teams, and local engagementWhy non-league football is so vital and vibrant 🏟️ Upcoming Highlights:Final home game: trophy presentation and club celebration Saturday 19th April 2025Cup final at Walsall’s stadium on Wednesday 30th April 2025Aiming 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. Intro and outro music, "Time for a Coffee"  Bob Wells © 2020 Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com