Derbyshire United's Unprecedented Growth: A Year of Mega Events and Community Engagement

Strategic Insights -

Derbyshire United, founded in June 2024 with the ambitious goal of playing a one-off 24-hour game, has revolutionized its approach in just one year. Instead of proceeding with the single mega event, the club has built momentum by hosting multiple events each month. The club's inaugural year was a resounding success, with £15,000 raised, sending 24 children to school in Kenya, and achieving a record attendance of over 300 at South Normanton. Chairman and founder Joshua Smith praised the club's players and volunteers, highlighting their charitable nature, support, and dedication.

Key Takeaways:

  • Derbyshire United raised over £15,000 in their first year, which they will use to support their charitable initiatives.
  • The club has secured three host venues and retained their FA affiliation, allowing them to continue playing competitive football.
  • Derbyshire United sent 24 children to school in Kenya, showcasing their commitment to charitable causes.
  • The club has attracted a record attendance of over 300 at South Normanton, demonstrating their appeal to local communities.
  • Joshua Smith emphasized the importance of the club's volunteers, supporters, sponsors, and hosts, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the organization's success.
  • Derbyshire United has been approved for Charity Status, with details set to be announced over the summer.
  • The club has introduced card payments for merchandise, including personalized tanks, car stickers, and replica kits.
  • Derbyshire United has taken out advertising on pitch sides at several local clubs and local radio, expanding their reach.

Statistics:

  • £15,000: The amount raised by Derbyshire United in their first year.
  • 24: The number of children sent to school in Kenya by the club.
  • 300: The record attendance achieved by the club at South Normanton.
  • 3: The number of host venues secured by the club.
  • 2: The number of games per month minimum that the club is booked for in the next six months.
  • 6 months: The duration for which the club has bookings for games.
  • 2: The number of new kits introduced by the club, including home, away, alternate, and limited edition anniversary strips.

Sources:

  • "Derbyshire United formed in June 2024 with the aim of playing a one-off 24 hour game." Derbyshire United, 2024.
  • "...they decided to hold off on the flagship event and continue with the momentum they had generated." Derbyshire United, 2025.
  • "Highlights over their inaugural year included sending 24 children to school in Kenya, a record attendance of over 300 at South Normanton, securing three host venues and retaining their FA affiliation." Derbyshire United, 2025.
  • "The community we've created is magnificent." Joshua Smith, Chairman and Founder, Derbyshire United.
  • "We're booked up for the next six months with two games per month minimum." Joshua Smith, Chairman and Founder, Derbyshire United.
  • "Three local sides have requested we play there on a regular basis, and we're happy to oblige." Joshua Smith, Chairman and Founder, Derbyshire United.
  • "We have a superb set of players, not in ability but their charitable nature, support and dedication." Joshua Smith, Chairman and Founder, Derbyshire United.