Club History

Clifton All Whites Football Club

Clifton All Whites was founded in 1963, originally under the name of Thistledown Rovers.  The clubs founder members include Mr Dick Lambert and Mr Bill Norwell.

During the 1960’s and 1970’s Clifton All Whites dominated youth football in Nottinghamshire by attracting the best players from all over the county, now most players are local.  There is no doubt Clifton All Whites led the way in developing youth football in Nottingham.  In 1963 there were only four teams in the Young Elizabethan League, and as the exploits of the club developed, and publicised, more teams and clubs were founded, many with advice and help from Clifton All Whites.  By 1966 plans were underway for Clifton All Whites to test their skills abroad in a tournament in Holland.  In those days tours were unheard of.  Success after success followed both home and abroad.  In the early days when football clubs only usually supplied shirts for their players a new standard was set as Clifton All Whites supplied a full ALL WHITES STRIP.  Another first was when the under 12’s played a top Scottish team before a crowd of over 20,000 before a Forest v Newcastle game, full time ending 15 minutes before kick off of the first division game.

Two quotes are remembered from that day.  Police Inspector “The easiest days policing this year, not one arrest”.  Scottish spectator “If Clifton play half as good as they look we are in for a hiding”.

Professional clubs clamored to persuade Clifton All Whites to become a nursery club, but still the club policy is not to become tied to any one club.  David Stainforth was the first player to make a career as a professional footballer, with Sheffield United.

Constantly Clifton All Whites performed well in FA Youth Cup games, beating many Professional teams.  It was no surprise that with an enthusiastic and hard working committee their own ground became a reality, quickly followed by a venture out of youth football to senior football at the highest level into the Midland League. 

Mick Walker, who went to Notts County was the first Club Manager and Coach, and what a brilliant find he was.  His professionalism and skills helped make the transition a successful one.

Whilst other clubs have come and gone Clifton All Whites are still thriving with teams from under 8’s to Seniors and in 1999 Clifton All Whites introduced the first girls team.  The success of the club over the years has been due to hard working committee plus the continued support of some great team managers and parents.