What began as a handful of women meeting for casual kickabouts in South Manchester has grown into one of the region’s fastest-growing independent women’s football clubs.
The Vixens were founded by Laura Myles, better known as “Wilbs”, after concerns over the management of her previous club left her and several teammates facing the prospect of being without a team to call home.
Determined to create something different, Laura and four former teammates turned to social media to organise informal kickabouts in local parks. With no established club behind them, no sponsors and no financial backing, the goal was simple: to find out whether there was enough interest to build something from the ground up.
The Response Exceeded Expectations
Those early sessions quickly attracted enough players for Laura to register the club with the Greater Manchester Women’s Football League (GMWFL). Sponsorship opportunities soon followed, thanks to connections made through the women attending the sessions, allowing the club to establish itself both on and off the pitch.
The Vixens continued to grow throughout their inaugural season, with many newcomers joining as training-only players before stepping into competitive football. The demand became so strong that the club expanded, introducing a second team to give more women the opportunity to play.
By the end of the first season, the club had launched a Flexi team, providing an alternative pathway for women who were new to football, preferred a less competitive environment or were unable to commit to traditional 11-a-side football. It reflected the club’s belief that there should be a place in the game for everyone.
Laura’s remarkable work did not go unnoticed. In November 2025, she was recognised by the Manchester FA after being named Coach of the Year Female Pathway, an award that celebrated her commitment to growing the women’s game and creating opportunities for players of all abilities.
Now, at the end of just their second season, the Vixens continue to go from strength to strength. New players are joining almost every week, and the club is already exploring the possibility of launching a third team in the Flexi League to ensure everyone has the opportunity to play.
The numbers speak for themselves. A recent training session attracted 40 players, despite a further 16 registered members being unavailable that evening, which is a remarkable turnout that underlines the club’s continued growth and the demand to be part of it.
Building a Sustainable Future
As an independent organisation, the Vixens rely on player subscriptions, the generosity of sponsors, and club fundraising initiatives to keep everything running. Current fundraising efforts include a Women’s World Cup sweepstake and a business raffle, where local companies can become a matchday sponsor for just £20.
Finding long-term facilities and maintaining financial stability remain ongoing challenges, but the club attributes its success to the unwavering commitment of its members.
Whether it’s paying subscriptions, helping to secure sponsorship, volunteering behind the scenes, or promoting the club within the local community, everyone plays a part in driving the Vixens forward.
More Than Just Football
Off the pitch, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment is just as important. Monthly social events are organised with something for everyone, proving that team bonding doesn’t always have to revolve around a night out.
The club has also begun making its mark in competition. Earlier this year, the Vixens entered two teams into a tournament in Blackpool for the first time, with one side reaching the final before narrowly missing out on the trophy.
Despite its rapid growth and increasing success, the club has remained true to the principles on which it was founded.
The Vixens believe that anyone who wants to play football should have the opportunity to do so. Enjoyment, confidence and personal development are valued above league positions and results—although, as everyone at the club admits, winning is always a welcome bonus.
Perhaps the club’s greatest achievement is the community it has created. Players range in age from 19 to 50 and come from a wide variety of careers, backgrounds and family situations. Many may never have met outside football, but through the Vixens they have formed lasting friendships, built confidence and found a place where everyone belongs.
As someone who has experienced the club’s journey first-hand, I have seen the impact the Vixens have on players both on and off the pitch. I joined the club at 17, initially playing as a goalkeeper for the 11-a-side team.
After my first season, the introduction of the nine-a-side Flexi League provided an opportunity that suited me perfectly.
As a dedicated Manchester City supporter who regularly spends weekends attending matches, and as a freelance non-league photographer, the Flexi League gave me the flexibility to continue playing the sport I love while balancing my other commitments.
Now representing the Vixens’ Manchester Flexi team as a goalkeeper, I have witnessed the club’s remarkable growth and its unwavering commitment to welcoming players of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.
It has created an environment where everyone can enjoy football, grow in confidence and feel part of something truly special.
