Non-League Day provides boost for grass roots clubs
While the rest of the footballing world was focused on World Cup qualifying matches, a large section of supporters looked elsewhere for their football fix on Saturday (11 October).
Grass roots clubs across the country received a huge boost thanks to Non-League Day 2017, which proved yet again to be a huge success.
With no Premier League or Championship fixtures due to the international break, fans were urged to visit teams outside of the top four divisions.
Supporters across the country took part, swapping Newcastle for Nuneaton, Chelsea for Chelmsford, and Liverpool for Leamington.
Prostate Cancer UK also benefitted, as a partnership with Non-League Day led to thousands of pounds being raised for the charity.
Isthmian League outfit Merstham FC were one of the clubs who helped raise money, going above and beyond by organising a barbecue, karaoke night and bucket collection when they took on Dorking Wanderers.
The club’s plans were heavily promoted in the run-up to the match and, despite a narrow 2–1 defeat, the day was hailed as a success.
The Moatsiders’ Vice Chair Sue Austen said: “This was the first time we have been at home on Non-League Day.
“We have always been away, so it was a good chance to actually do something and make the most of it.”
Despite Merstham’s home colours being yellow and black, Sue explained that there were more than a few claret and blue shirts on display in the crowd.
“We had a lot of West Ham and Crystal Palace fans come over and the overall attendance was around 270, which is a great boost and you need that at this level.
“We also had the youth teams involved with them being able to meet some of the first team players and get on the pitch, which we see as just as important.
“As you can imagine, they loved it.”
A large attendance can also help clubs with big ambitions such as Baffins Milton Rovers of the Wessex League Premier Division.
With the largest club in the region Portsmouth not playing until Sunday, it gave local fans a chance to go to the Kendall Stadium and support the ninth-tier team.
Rovers, who were founded in 2011, have recently been developing their ground, including building a brand new £90,000 clubhouse.
Tony Male, who acts as their Commercial Manager and is more commonly known as ‘Touchline Tony’, said that Non-League Day is vital.
“It is very important because at the end of the day, it’s the people who come through the gate that keep us afloat.” Tony said.
“Obviously, the clubhouse will be a great source of revenue for us when we have it finished and we will be able to have functions and the players will have somewhere better to go after games.
“Don’t forget we also still have to pay for referees, the upkeep of the pitch and the wages for the players.”
Jason Stockford, who attends Baffins games to watch his son Lewis play, added: “It’s a good local club to come and watch.
“It’s not too expensive. Obviously, people can’t afford to go to football sometimes. It’s good to, instead of going to Fratton Park and paying all that money, to come here.”
Although a late equaliser meant Baffins had to settle for a 3–3 draw with Amesbury Town, the bumper attendance will have been a good consolation.
“Non-League Day is good for us and it gives the place a nice buzz,” Tony said.
“We’re looking forward to some good times.”
Although the event is now over for this year, plans are in place for Non-League Day 2018, and fans are being encouraged to take advantage of the next international break on 11 November.
