A new study has found the majority of Brits have never watched their local non-league football team play – despite the fact the matches take place right on their doorsteps
New research has uncovered that the vast majority of Brits have never seen their local football team play – and over a third (34%) of Brits are unable to identify a single Non-League team. To address this, South Western Railway has joined forces with James Doe, the founder of Non-League Day and a guard at Waterloo Station, to urge football enthusiasts to attend a local match on Saturday (March 22).
Non-League Day was initiated by James in 2010 to capitalise on the international football hiatus when no Premier League or Championship matches are played in England. The aim is to inspire football fans nationwide to support their local Non-League games instead.
With a mission to boost grassroots and community football clubs, Non-League Day fosters community spirit by emphasising the significance of lower-tier football clubs in nurturing talent and supporting the sport’s progression through higher leagues.
The average English household is just eight miles away from a local club. Those who have previously attended a Non-League match cite affordability (49%), a family-friendly environment (41%), and easy access (33%) as the top benefits.
Yet, a shocking 75% of Brits have never been to a Non-League game, despite it being practically on their doorstep. In contrast, people have travelled an average of 116.5 miles one way to watch a Premier League match.
Brits could not only save time but also money by opting to watch their local team play. The cost difference between attending a local match versus a higher league game is substantial.
Premier League enthusiasts shell out an average of £54 just for the ticket, while a complete day at a Non-League match (inclusive of entry, travel, and snacks) sets fans back by merely £20.80 on average.
Moreover, many of football’s biggest names have roots in Non-League football clubs – including Ian Wright, Jarrod Bowen, Jordan Pickford, Les Ferdinand and Ollie Watkins, a fact unknown to 96% of Brits.
Supporting local clubs comes with its own perks such as a heightened sense of community and local pride (44%), involvement in community events (38%), a shared sense of purpose and team spirit (36%), and bolstering the local economy by patronising businesses (36%).
James Doe, the brains behind Non-League Day and a South Western Railway Guard, remarks: “Since I started Non-League Day 15 years ago, it’s been amazing to see support for local teams grow, bringing communities together, and inspiring young players. Non-League football is volunteer-led, so it’s vital to give these teams support where we can. We’d love to see as many people get down and support their local team.”
Around 450 Non-League matches are taking place across the UK, 51 of which are within the South Western Railway network, including Aldershot Town v Ebbsfleet United, Eastleigh v Southend United, and Havant & Waterlooville v Gloucester City. All matches are easily accessible by train, book your tickets here.
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