Saturday, 5 Oct 2024

From Non League to The Premier League – My Journey as a Volunteer in Football

Have you ever dreamt of working in the Premier League? The allure of the top-tier football competition is undeniable. But as someone who has experienced both the highest level of the game and the grassroots level, I can confidently say that there is a wealth of knowledge and valuable experience to be gained from volunteering in non-league football.

Volunteering at your local Football club

Let me share with you my personal journey in the football industry, which began at Hitchin Town Football Club. Located in the charming town of Hitchin in Hertfordshire, this local club provided me with an incredible opportunity to be a part of something I love. Despite working as an Administrator in the Robotics Industry at the time, I couldn’t resist the chance to contribute to the world of football.

Starting with writing match previews and reports for the club’s website, I soon found myself writing match reports for the Non-League Paper (NLP). It was a thrilling experience that required me to pay close attention to every detail of the game. At lower levels of football, someone is responsible for providing statistics and match reports, a role we often take for granted. But being entrusted with this responsibility was both challenging and rewarding.

From Non-League Volunteer to the Premier League

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My story is not unique. A friend and former colleague of mine also began their journey by writing match reports for the NLP. They went on to work as a Media Assistant at a League Two club before progressing further to a media team role at a Premier League club. The opportunities are endless.

While roles like Sports Science or Player Care may not be available at non-league level, there are still countless areas where you can gain valuable insight and experience. Think of positions such as a Club Secretary, where administration plays a crucial role. Sponsorship income and ticket sales are also essential aspects at all levels of football. By volunteering at your local non-league club, you not only gain experience but also contribute to the growth and success of the club.

I owe a great deal of gratitude to Hitchin Town FC for the opportunities they provided me. Volunteering at a non-league club played a vital role in elevating my career in football. It gave me the confidence, knowledge, and work ethic necessary to pursue a full-time position at a Premier League club. So, don’t underestimate the power of volunteering and the doors it can open for you.

Volunteer – Help your local club and yourself!

If you’re passionate about a career in football, I encourage you to look into your local non-league club or those in surrounding areas. What’s the harm in getting involved? You’ll meet knowledgeable individuals who share your love for the game. And who knows? You might discover rewarding opportunities that not only benefit your career but also support a club that relies on volunteers and supporters to thrive. Even if you can’t offer your services for free, attending matches and reading match reports can enhance your understanding of the game.

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Today, I am a proud season ticket holder at Hitchin Town FC. I continue to assist the club on a volunteer basis. Despite having worked at higher levels of the football pyramid, I still find myself learning from the very club that kick-started my journey.

So, don’t wait any longer. Dive into the world of non-league football and discover the incredible experiences it has to offer. Who knows where it might lead you?