Founded in the late 1870s (probably 1877), Hugglescote Robin Hood FC were pioneers of football in Leicestershire, predating the formal establishment of competitive leagues. For their first decade, matches were purely friendly affairs, steeped in the camaraderie and honour of the game. Hugglescote Robin Hood FC likely played under Sheffield Rules before embracing the Association Rules, and perhaps even some unique local rules in their earliest days.
The club’s origins are deeply intertwined with the Hugglescote community, notably through the Rev. Canon Broughton, the cheery and popular Vicar, who arrived in 1875. Canon Broughton was not only one of the club’s founders but also an active player for eight years, gracing the right wing. He fondly recalled teammates like Grimson, Choyce, and Newbold, the latter being the licensee of the Gate Inn, Hugglescote, which later became the headquarters of Hugglescote United. Other notable “Robin Hoods” included R. Anderson, Mr. John Kirby, and Mr. Joseph Riley.
Emulating their namesake, the team’s kit was a striking combination of green jerseys and stockings, complemented by dashing round red caps. Their early matches were played on a field near the school, off the Ashby road. These were rugged times; charging opponents was an accepted, even celebrated, part of the game. Mr. Kirby famously knocked Mr. Riley into a deep brook during a practice match – a scenario unimaginable to a modern referee.
The early days of Hugglescote Robin Hood FC were characterised by amateurism and a genuine love for the sport. There was no offside rule, no professionalism, and no “gates” (ticket sales). Players themselves covered all expenses, from travel to equipment. Matches were played purely for honour, a stark contrast to the betting-laden football of later eras.
Hugglescote Robin Hood FC played a crucial role in the development of football in the region. They were founder members of the Leicestershire Football Association in 1887, marking the arrival of competitive football in the county. In 1890, they were also instrumental in forming the Leicestershire Football League. Their competitive spirit was soon rewarded when they famously won the Leicestershire Association Challenge Cup in the 1891-92 season, triumphing over Fosse Reserves in the final held at Hinckley. The victorious team included names like A. Walker, G. Marriott (captain), C. Eales, David Moore, T. Wells, H. Kendrick, W. Lover, J. Marriott, J. Poole, H. Cross, and S. Gent. Canon Broughton, Mr. J. Armsom (secretary), Mr. J. Causer (chairman), and Mr. W. Wilkins were also part of the group photograph commemorating this historic win.
Beyond their league and cup exploits, the club’s influence extended to nurturing talent. Loughborough Town FC even showed interest in one of their famed “Robins,” W. Underwood, leading to a local stir. Other notable players who donned the green and scarlet included Frank Sanders, Wm. Andrews, Tom Armson, Tom Hayell, Wm. Haywood, Wm. Cross, and W. Underwood.
Sadly, the club’s journey came to an end in 1900 when they resigned from the Coalville & District League without completing their fixtures, leading to the club’s collapse. However, their legacy lived on. The cessation of Hugglescote Robin Hood FC paved the way for the formation of Hugglescote United, Mr. John Kirby, a passionate football official from Hugglescote, became the chairman of the new club, ensuring the spirit of football continued in the parish.
Hugglescote Robin Hood FC, though a club of a bygone era, remains a testament to the purity and passion of early football, leaving an indelible mark on the sporting history of Leicestershire.
