Football, now one of the most dominant sports globally, had significantly more humble beginnings. Before it became the financial behemoth it is today, football was nothing more than an organized kickabout among friends. The sport lacked structure and rules were made up as they went along, a practice that continues in the Premier League to this day. But who were the pioneering figures that founded the game? What clubs were responsible for the formation of the Football League? And where are they now? Let’s find out.
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Early Days Before the Football League
It would be dishonest to suggest that no games of football were played before the official formation of the Football League. However, back then, matches lacked structure or any real sense of organization. Clubs organized their own fixtures and cup matches, often bending the rules by paying “professional” players to gain a competitive edge. This financial doping occurred long before modern clubs like Chelsea and Manchester City even existed.
It wasn’t until 1885 that the Football Association allowed the game to turn professional. This decision followed an intense four-year debate. This lengthy decision-making process, reminiscent of the association’s cautious approach to introducing technology or overturning red cards, paved the way for clubs to officially pay players without arousing the contempt of their more rule-abiding rivals.
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Once clubs were allowed to turn professional, chaos ensued. Clubs sought financial gain by participating in FA Cup games, inter-county matches, and everyday fixtures. Club owners realized that regulations were needed, but many were hesitant to propose a solution.
Forming Order From Chaos
The idea of adding structure to the English game was first proposed by William McGregor, an Aston Villa director. In 1888, McGregor wrote to his own board and several Northern and Midlands-based clubs, suggesting the creation of an official league that would guarantee each member a fixed number of matches each year. No more last-minute arrangements for a Saturday afternoon kickabout.
Ironically, McGregor likely drew inspiration from a 1887 proposal for a college football league in America, which was covered by the English press. The proposal discussed forming a league with a schedule containing two championship games between every two participating colleges.
A meeting took place at Anterton’s Hotel in London on March 23, 1888, the night before the FA Cup final. While much was discussed, no concrete decisions were made. The only outcome was the agreement to hold another meeting at Manchester’s Royal Hotel on April 17.
The Formation of the English Football League
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It was in Manchester that the league was not only formed but also named. McGregor, who had initiated the first meeting, suggested the name “Association Football Union.” However, others present believed this name closely resembled the existing Rugby Football Union. Major William Sudell, representing Preston, proposed the name “Football League,” which was readily accepted.
A few months later, on September 8, 1888, the newly-formed league kicked off for the first time. It consisted of twelve teams from the Midlands and the North, including Aston Villa, Everton, Blackburn Rovers, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, among others. Remarkably, all but one of these teams still exist today. Accrington was the lone team to be dissolved, lasting only eight years due to relegation and financial difficulties resulting from their refusal to play in the Second Division.
Many of these clubs have achieved great success over the years. Aston Villa, for example, has won the top division seven times and is one of only five English clubs to have won the European Cup. Blackburn Rovers and Everton have also had their fair share of triumphs, with Blackburn Rovers winning the Premier League and Everton claiming the First Division title nine times. Bolton Wanderers, Burnley, Derby County, Notts County, Stoke City, West Bromwich Albion, and Wolverhampton Wanderers all have their own notable achievements within the sport.
FAQs
Q: How many teams were part of the first Football League?
A: The first Football League consisted of twelve teams from the Midlands and the North.
Q: Are all the original Football League teams still in existence?
A: Nearly all of the original teams still exist, with only one, Accrington, being dissolved.
Q: Which clubs have experienced the greatest success since the league’s formation?
A: Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, and Everton are among the clubs with significant achievements, including domestic league titles and European success.
Conclusion
The founding of the Football League marked a pivotal moment in the history of football. From its humble beginnings and chaotic early days, the league brought structure, organization, and the opportunity for clubs to thrive. Today, the legacy of those founding teams can still be seen, with many of them achieving remarkable success over the years. The English Football League continues to evolve, captivating fans around the world and inspiring future generations of players and spectators alike.
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