Signed from: Unattached

Brakes debut: 13/08/05 @ Boldmere St Michaels - Midland Football Alliance - Won 3-2

Appearances: 41

Goals: 5

2005/06: 23 starts, 18 sub appearances, 5 goals

It seems a long time ago now, but Alex Rodman's career in senior football began back in 2005 at Leamington. Our first pre season friendly that summer was played at the NFU Mutual grounds near Stratford against Whitnash Town, where a young Alex gave Brakes fans a first glimpse of his talent. He played mainly at right wing back and in midfield while at the New Windmill Ground, and those who watched him play can recall the flashes of quality which would see him go on to play in the Football League for a number of clubs. 

He scored his first goal three games in against Rocester, but his next two catapulted him into the limelight for the first time. On a rain soaked afternoon at the New Windmill Ground in early October, Alex scored a stunning free kick and an even better solo effort to fire Brakes past Woodford United into the 4th Qualifying Round of the FA Cup in the club's first season in the competition for almost 20 years. Brakes fans were able to show their gratitude after he was nominated for the Player of the Round award by the FA, voting in their droves to ensure that Alex won the prize, and with it a trip to the Final at the Millenium Stadium in Cardiff. 

Alex Rodman's goals against Woodford United in the FA Cup - October 2005

Alex only stayed at Leamington for one season as he was at University in Nottingham, and moved to Grantham Town the following season. He went on to feature for several Non League clubs, but all at Leamington were proud when he became the first player of the new era to progress into the Football League in 2011 when he was signed by Aldershot, his shirt taking pride of place in the New Windmill Ground clubhouse. Alex has gone on to play for York City, Grimsby Town, Newport County, Notts County, Shrewsbury Town and Bristol Rovers, and Brakes fans still keep a keen eye on his progress.