Non-league day takes place this weekend with the absence of Premier Leagu and Championship football providing ample opportunity for football fans to see teams further down the pyramid
Non-League football is the lifeblood of the game – just ask England trio Ollie Watkins, Jordan Pickford and Jarrod Bowen. Three of the Premier League stars who are looking to help England qualify for the 2028 World Cup cut their teeth at less glamorous places like Weston-super-Mare, Darlington, Alfreton Town and Hereford United on their way to the big time.
And in a bid to attract more fans to the lower levels of the pyramid during the international break, tomorrow has been earmarked for the 2025 edition of Non-League Day, with supporters encouraged to get their football fix during the break in the Premier League and Championship by giving a local side some much-needed support.
Non-League Day was the idea of railway guard James Doe back in 2010. And this year his bosses at South Western Railway have teamed up with their Waterloo Station-based employee to encourage fans to do their bit for grassroots football – and be thoroughly entertained at the same time.
Doe said: “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.
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“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.”
Most houses in England are built within eight miles of a football club. And according to research carried out by OnePoll, 49% of the 2,000 people who were asked said the best thing about attending a Non-League match in the past was the affordability.
The family-friendly atmosphere was an attraction for 41% of those surveyed, while 33% appreciated the easy accessibility.
However, a staggering 75% of Brits have never attended a Non-League match, despite the fact it takes place on their doorsteps and costs on average just £20.80-per-person for a ticket, travel and refreshments.
In contrast, Premier League fans spend an average of £54 just to get into a game.
There will be 450 Non-League matches taking place across the UK on Saturday. Of those 51 of which are within the South Western Railway network.
They include 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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