NOTTINGHAM LIONS

? - 1978

Originally named Athletics, they were formed sometime in the early 1950's and played their home games at firstly Aspley playing fields, then Harvey Haddon stadium, then at the University Playing Fields.

In 1963 they were a founding member of the new National League.

In the late 1960's/early 1970's they were offered use of a new home field at the Carlton Forum Sports Centre and were renamed Carlton Forum Lions. They only played one, maybe two seasons there before moving back to the University playing fields and becoming Nottingham Lions.

The Lions' greatest moment came in 1974 when they won their only National Championship, beating Hull Royals 5-3 at their home field in Nottingham. They again reached the National final the following year, but lost to Liverpool Tigers.

The team played it's last season in 1978, although they did return for one season in 1982, only to finish 3-7 in the Midlands League.

The Lions are the only Midlands team to have won a post WWII National Championship.

*Thanks to Michael Harrold.