IT IS a commonly held view that football in England has sold its soul and that the players and clubs of the Premier League have lost the close connection with the towns, cities and people that they are supposed to be representing.
With more and more fans feeling priced out of the game at the top level, many Non-League football clubs around the country have seen an increase in attendance. Fans of the lower leagues claim a greater sense of community at their local clubs, and this involvement is seen as an example of everything that the modern game is not.
Getting stuck in
Many Non-League clubs rely on the generosity of their fans and the volunteers that help out, painting the ground in the off-season and selling programmes and burgers on match days. Feeling the need to help out their local side is enough for many Non-League fans to give up large chunks of their time to make sure that football at this level continues, and their support is vital without the television money that the big clubs enjoy.
Taking over
Over the past few years, there have been a number of cases where Non-League clubs have become owned by their supporters. With unchecked ambition and financial mismanagement, some football club owners have taken their clubs to the brink of closure, and it is only thanks to the fans that clubs such as Lewes, Wrexham, Bamber Bridge – and many more – are still in existence.
Closer to the action
Without the stale corporate experience of the top flight, a Non-League match promises immediacy and closeness to the action that cannot be replicated in some of the bigger leagues. Interaction with the players is high as the fans can hear every word that is said on the pitch – and vice versa. And with more organised groups such as the supporters of Whitehawk and Dulwich Hamlet and other clubs, the sense of camaraderie and togetherness is a big attraction to anyone looking for something different.
Sheer enjoyment
Although the football on show might not be quite to the same level of the Champions League, there is much to be said for the delights of a Non-League match on a Saturday – at three o'clock. Fans can have a drink while they watch the match and even have a flutter with one of a number of football bet websites – UK lower league fans really have it all.
With a cost that is considerably lower than the amounts spent on following sides in the top flight, Non-League football fans can experience the simple enjoyment of a good match and a feeling that they are part of something in their local communities. The size of the crowds may be smaller, but the strength and unity of the supporters who devote their match days and nights to Non-League football is a testament to their love of the game – and a great example of the community spirit at this level of football.
