Lee Crooks is a former professional footballer who began his journey right here at Altofts as a talented junior player before turning that promise into a proud career. Born in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, Lee joined the youth ranks at Manchester City and signed his first professional contract as a teenager. He broke into the first team in the mid-1990s, showing the determination and commitment that would define his career.
One of Lee’s standout moments came in 1999, when he was part of the Manchester City squad that won promotion in the Division Two play-off final. A versatile defender and defensive midfielder, Lee was known for his grit, strong tackling and never-give-up attitude — qualities that made him a valuable team player both on and off the pitch.
Today, Lee remains passionate about the game and continues to give back at grassroots level, helping young players enjoy football and develop the same foundations that guided his own journey. His story shows that with hard work, belief and the right attitude, a junior player can achieve great things — both on the pitch and beyond it.
