Formed in 2021 alongside the founding of the club, Loughborough Lions U11 Reds have quickly grown into a strong and ambitious team within the Leicestershire Junior Football Leagues. Led by head coach and club founder John Mitchell (who also runs JM Football Academy & Holiday Camps) and supported by assistant coach Kev (whose son is part of the squad). The team is built around a solid foundation based on development, teamwork, passion for the game and FUN.

The team started off in the lower levels of grassroots at U7s and each season have shown incredible progress and resilience climbing the football pyramid to reach highest level in their age group late in 2024. The U11 Reds now compete in Division 1 of the Leicestershire Foxes Sunday League and are off to a great start. One of their proudest achievements came in the 2024/25 season, when they were crowned County Cup Level 1 Champions, making them one of the most successful teams in the county at their age group that season.

The team has evolved with the changing formats over the years, but still proudly includes many of the original players and we now have a squad of 11 highly dedicated players (and parents). With the strength and success over the years it means some have progressed to academy football, highlighting the quality of coaching and player development on offer. 

The team trains on Wednesdays and Saturdays with matches played on a Sunday, where we record the games to capture memories and help the coaches review areas to improve. All our sessions are led by FA and UEFA qualified coaches, ensuring a safe, structured, and enjoyable football experience for every player. 

If you like what you have read about our squad, why not get in touch by clicking here as we are always looking for players with the right ability and mindset who would like to push their game to the next level, so if you are interested, please drop the club a message.