From zero players to four teams: Torrington FC Youth's amazing rise

A club built from scratch two years ago is preparing for a fundraising milestone, and its founder says the journey has exceeded every expectation.

When Daniel Woolf bumped into an old friend in the summer of 2024, he had no idea the conversation would lead to the creation of a thriving youth football setup in North Devon.

That friend happened to own Torrington FC. 

The question of why a club of its size had no youth teams sparked an idea, and within months, Daniel had turned that idea into reality.

“We'd love to, we just can't get it off the ground,” Daniel recalled being told. It was all the motivation he needed.

Starting with little more than a Facebook post and a phone full of contacts, he launched Torrington FC Under-12s in May 2024.

By the end of that summer, 17 players had signed up and the team had entered the North Devon Youth League.

Now, on 9 May 2026, the squad will take part in a sponsored spin session, aiming to raise £1,000 for training and matchday equipment, a reflection of how far the club has come since those early days.

Daniel, who was already working as an assistant coach at an established club, was determined to build something different, an environment where players, parents, grandparents and siblings all felt they belonged.

“I had a burning desire to create something different,” he says. “More of a family feel - an environment that included not only the players but parents, grandparents and siblings as well.”

That vision has attracted considerable backing from the local community. 

Sponsors including DTEC Pro, Gordon's Auto Services and Bond Oxborough Phillips have all come on board, while a donation from Torrington Town and Lands funded a new set of goals.

The fundraising effort has drawn praise from within the club's own community.

Kerrie Blackwood, whose son plays for the under-13s, told the Gazette the event speaks to something deeper than sport.

“True success in sport is built on dedication, teamwork, and community spirit,” she said. “Every player in the squad is taking part in the sponsored spin class, demonstrating commitment that goes far beyond match day.”

Ms Blackwood reserved particular praise for coaches Dan and Chris, describing their contribution as going well beyond the training pitch.

“Week in, week out, they invest their time, energy, and passion to ensure every player is given the opportunity to develop, improve, and most importantly enjoy their football,” she said. 

“They create an atmosphere where the boys feel valued and motivated, fostering confidence both on and off the pitch.”

She added that the team's willingness to take on fundraising challenges was a direct reflection of the culture the coaches had built, one of hard work, respect and unity.

“The Torrington U13 team is a shining example of what grassroots football is all about,” she said. “Their combined dedication deserves recognition and praise from the whole community.”

What began as a single under-12s side has since grown into a wider youth structure. 

The club now also runs under-10s, under-11s and an under-13s girls team, with further additions reportedly under discussion.

Daniel said the response from local businesses and families has made it possible to keep costs affordable, a priority from the outset.

“After two successful seasons, the whole group has evolved into everything I had wished it would,” he said.

The club continues to seek additional sponsorship as it looks to sustain and expand its growing youth programme.

The sponsored spin session takes place on 9 May 2026. Those wishing to support the fundraiser can contact Torrington FC Youth directly.