Torquay United defender Roxy Thomas, 18, faces brain cancer diagnosis

Torquay United confirmed that 18-year-old defender Roxy Thomas has been diagnosed with a brain tumour and has already undergone two surgical procedures. Thomas, a former Plymouth Argyle academy product who arrived at United last summer, has become an important attacking left-back for the women's team that finished the 2025/26 season unbeaten and earned promotion to the FA Women’s National League. Coach Ryan Perks said the squad’s priority is Thomas’s wellbeing, and chairman Rob Hawes described her as an exceptionally special young lady.

The club will support a JustGiving campaign to assist with her medical expenses, and teammates and family are rallying around her. Further details on how to contribute will be released soon.