Kettering Town football Club (affectionately known as The Poppies) were originally formed in 1872, turning professional in 1891. The club graduated through twelve different leagues from 1892 until they became founding members of the Alliance Premier League in 1979. The club maintained its status in the top flight of semi-professional football until the 2000–01 season. Since then the club has seen a lot of changes especially in managers – with even legend Paul Gascoigne having a very brief turn in 2005.

Lee Glover became the Poppies 61st manager for the onset of the 2022-23 season. KTFC used to play from Rockingham Road in Kettering but now share Latimer Park ground with Latimer Wanderers. They are currently members of the National League North, the sixth tier of English football. The club also runs a variety of youth teams (from under 7s to under 15s), a youth training academy and a women’s only walking football team.