Grassroots Beginnings (1993-2003)

FC Hartlepool’s story began in 1993 as Fens Hotel FC, created by Tony Thomas after a knee injury ended his playing days. With the team facing collapse, Tony and Barry Murray stepped in to rebuild. A name change to Warrior FC followed, then another to Arriva FC after sponsorship from the local bus company.

Playing on the Manor Academy pitch, the team thrived—winning local cups, finishing league runners-up, and finally lifting the Durham Minor Trophy after a dramatic penalty shootout. The club’s early years were powered by pub-based fundraising, strong camaraderie, and grassroots spirit.

Moving Up the Ranks (2002–2010)

In 2002, now Teesside Arriva, the club entered the Teesside League. Strong performances earned promotion, cup wins, and recognition for players like Neil Hay, who won the Golden Boot. In 2003, the name changed once more—this time to Hartlepool FC. That season brought a Division 1 title, Durham Trophy, and a growing belief that the club could go further.

During this period, youth development became a major focus. Teams competed in the Durham Lomax U18 League and Russell Foster Youth League, with several players progressing into senior football and even the professional ranks—most notably Shaun Ross, who signed for Luton Town.

Wearside League & Youth Expansion (2010–2018)

With home matches now at Grayfields Enclosure, FC Hartlepool made strides in the Wearside League, while the youth section expanded dramatically. U16s, U18s, and girls’ teams won multiple trophies, while players like Billy Gatenby, John Stephenson, and Jamie Tumilty rewrote the club’s scoring records.

In 2018, the senior team won the Alan Hood Charity Cup, capping off years of steady progress. Tumilty became the Wearside League’s top scorer with 41 goals, marking a proud moment for a local lad and for the club.

A Modern, Community Club (2019–2023)

The club rebranded as FC Hartlepool in 2019 and became a registered charity. That same year, it began redeveloping its ground to Northern League standards—with new stands, floodlights, and improved access. Community engagement flourished, and by 2023 the club was operating over 50 youth teams and hosting crowds of 300+.

In their first FA Vase run, the senior team defeated Sunderland RCA, Chester-le-Street United, and Jarrow FC, only exiting after a controversial red card. They also reached the Durham Challenge Cup semi-finals, beating Division 1 side Seaham Red Star on the way.

Present Day: Ambition Meets Opportunity

Today, FC Hartlepool is one of the fastest-growing community football clubs in the North East—with more than 800 young players, a ladies team, and players regularly earning places in academy setups at Hartlepool United, Whitby Town, and Newcastle United.

Recent highlights include:

• U13 Stags winning 20/20 league games

• U11 Girls winning a boys’ league

• U16s earning academy and scholarship places

• U18s crowned TJFA League champions

• U6 and U7s winning in their debut seasons

• A record 1,500 fans attending a summer fixture vs Hartlepool United

From its humble pub-team origins to competing in the Northern League Division 2, FC Hartlepool has stayed true to its values—community, development, ambition, and a deep connection to its town.

“Sic Itur Ad Astra – This is the way to the stars.”