About
Derby junior football LEAGUE
over 30 years of footballing history for derby’s children
The 1990’s
Affectionately known as the “community League”, we were formed many years ago (1994) by Derby City Council as a service to children in deprived inner city areas. The Council designed the competition to that all matches would be played at central venues (city parks) with no traditional home and away. In this way, clubs did not have to invest in their own facilities.
With the advent of mini-soccer in the late 90’s and more recently the 9v9 format at U11 and U12, the League found it was the only body able to provide these new formats. Popularity has continued to grow year-on-year presenting a substantial challenge to the League and facility providers as we try to accommodate one of the fastest growing sports in the country - kids football.
The 2000s
The control of the League was handed over to member clubs in March 2005 and renamed the Derby Community Mini-Soccer League. Since this time, it has become financially viable and has grown in numbers by around 10% each year. In 2008, the name was abbreviated to the Derby Mini-Soccer League and then to the Derby Junior Football League in 2012 when we formally adopted the 9v9 format at Under 12's.
A charter Standard LEAGUE
In 2009 the League became the first in Derbyshire to achieve Charter Status. We then went on to become the Charter Standard League of the year for an unprecedented fives years in succession
The League is fully focused on the challenges ahead. This includes supporting and increasing the number of players and teams within the League, providing better facilities for new formats of the game and improving the quality of football.
In Memoriam: Mike Torrance
It is with deep gratitude that we remember Mike Torrance, a visionary whose passion and dedication helped to establish the Derby Junior Football League over 25 years ago. Mike passed away in 2021 but his legacy continues to thrive and inspire.
Mike was not just one of the founders, but he was the heartbeat of our league. His charisma, boundless energy, and unwavering commitment laid the foundations for what has grown into a flourishing community of over 60 clubs and hundreds of teams. Through his efforts, tens of thousands of young people have found a platform to develop their sporting skills, learn the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and grow fitter and stronger.
The impact of Mike’s work is immeasurable. He was instrumental in creating a supportive environment where young athletes could thrive, fostering not just their physical development but also their personal growth. The league has become a beacon of excellence in youth football, and it owes much of its success to Mike’s visionary leadership and tireless dedication.
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Mike’s family for their unwavering support and for sharing Mike with us. His commitment often required sacrifices, and we are grateful for the time, effort and his own resources that he dedicated to ensuring the league's success.
Mike Torrance's contribution to the Derby Junior Football League will never be underestimated or forgotten. His spirit continues to guide us, and his memory remains a cornerstone of our community. We are committed to honouring his legacy by continuing to build on the strong foundations he established, ensuring that the league remains a positive influence on the lives of young athletes for many years to come.
Thank you, Mike, for everything. Your legacy lives on in every game played, every goal scored, and every young person whose life has been touched by the Derby Junior Football League.