If you’re reading this, chances are that you are interested in the semi - professional or amateur game on Non - League Day.
But what is Non-League Day? And why is it so important?
Non-League Day was set up by James Doe in 2010 as a social media experiment after being inspired by a pre- season trip to Devon to watch Queens Park Rangers play Tavistock. It has now grown to become an annual part of the football calendar, backed by the Premier League and many of its member clubs, MPs, celebrities, media organisations, charities and most importantly the non- league clubs themselves and the fans who turn up on the day.
Always scheduled to coincide with an international break, Non League Day provides a platform for clubs to promote the importance of affordable volunteer led community football while giving fans across the country the chance to show support for their local non- league side.
Why is non- League football important?
Many non - league clubs are almost exclusively volunteer run, with money taken at the turnstiles funding thriving youth set-ups, projects and facilities which are of benefit to the whole community.
It offers a path way for young players into the game and a safety net for those who don’t make it into professional academies.
What is the attraction of non - League football?
The level of skill on offer at non- league grounds rarely compares to that at the Emirates Stadium or Old Trafford, for example, but there are other sides to the experience from which the smaller club will always win hands down.
The vast majority of games still kick off at 3pm, ticket prices are realistic, you can often stand anywhere in the ground and will always be guaranteed a warm welcome by people who run their clubs for a love of the game.
What will be happening across the country
today?
Now in its sixth season and with a sister event in Germany, called Lokalrunde, Non
League Day is looking to have its most successful year yet.
Once again, fans and clubs are also being encouraged to raise funds and
awareness of Non -League Day charity partner Prostate Cancer UK. As in 2014, National League sponsors Vanarama are at the forefront of the fundraising efforts and have launched their #WearTheWig ca
mpaign as a fun way to get supporters involved around the country.
Special events and unusual deals have become a hallmark of the day, whether it be a free box of
eggs, fancy dress competitions or pay what you want,
clubs up and down the land are embracing the chance to grab the headlines and attract new people.
Anti -discrimination organisation - Kick It Out are also running events at four games including one at
Sheffield FC, the oldest football club in the world.
With all this combined, we hope that Non-League Day 2015 will prove to be an enjoyable and
beneficial experience for all.