Why American tourists should attend a non-league game

Wrexham’s rise up the pyramid from where it all began in the National League has seen them win over thousands of American fans. Still, despite the Red Dragons’ undeniable appeal, many football fans from across the pond tend to follow Premier League sides over some other aspirational clubs.

Of course, Wrexham aren’t the only club with an American following. For example, long-time Wimbledon fan John Green, an American author and YouTuber, fell in love with the Wombles after witnessing the club’s fan-powered rise from the Combined Counties League. However, there aren’t many other examples of American sports fans buying into the allure of the non-league game. Most fans prefer the bright lights of the Premier League, a sporting offering that mirrors the package in the NFL, a competition Americans follow while looking at NFL betting lines and selecting their fantasy picks.

Despite clubs like Liverpool and Chelsea having huge populations of American supporters, the charm of the non-league game should still appeal to football lovers from that part of the world. With that in mind, we suggest some key reasons Americans should consider attending a non-league game.

An authentic football experience

While you might prefer the cauldron of noise and fireworks displays at some Premier League grounds, it feels plastic to some football fans in England. The high-paid professionals in the league aren’t relatable, while the extortionate ticket prices are seeing an increasing number of fans turn to lower league football. The perfect antidote to modern football disillusionment, a non-league football fixture offers a far more authentic experience. Whether you attend an Aldershot Town match or immerse yourself in the story of Dorking Wanderers, you’ll be closer to the action and enjoy a far more community-driven version of the sport. If you’re fascinated by football culture in England, you’re far more likely to get a taste of it.

A special pyramid system

There isn’t anything quite like the pyramid system in English football. From tiny towns to bigger cities, football clubs all over the country represent the places they’re from. You’ll also see dedicated fans from those areas following their beloved teams up and down the country. You’ll also see well-followed sides from places you’ve never heard of. This is one of the most attractive aspects of the English football pyramid, with more clubs than in most places worldwide. As such, you’ll discover just how football mad the English are.

A more social offering

Although you’ll feel like a number at a Premier League game, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the local community at a non-league encounter. There won’t be a selfie stick in sight, with fans typically conversing with each other before and after games.

An affordable package

Travelling isn’t cheap these days, particularly in locations like the UK. If you’ve already purchased expensive West End show tickets and shopped throughout the capital, you might want to squeeze in a more affordable experience. Step forward, non-league football. Tickets are far cheaper than a top-flight game, food and drink are reasonably priced, and you might even be able to purchase a club jersey while you’re there.

Make a difference

Unlike the riches of the Premier League, many non-league clubs are struggling financially. As such, when you purchase a match ticket, you can make a difference to the club in question. From there, you might form an emotional connection and have a non-league club to call your own.