As Non-League Day 2026 approaches on 28th March, a new survey by sports media brand LiveScore highlights the key differences between professional and non-league football fandom in the UK—and why the grassroots game remains so special.
The survey captures the opinions of both professional and non-league football supporters, uncovering what draws fans to non-league clubs, the barriers that still exist, and opportunities to grow the game at the community level.
Non-League: More Than Just the Result
While 69% of professional club fans say they care most about the outcome of a game, just 23% of non-league fans feel the same way. This shows that non-league football is about the full experience, not just the scoreline. Fans cite affordability, local convenience, and close-knit community atmospheres as key draws.
Non-league matchday highlights include:
- The atmosphere – intimate grounds and passionate supporters
- Social connections – attending with friends and family
- Community spirit – a strong link to the local area
- Affordability – lower ticket prices than professional games
- Proximity to the action – being closer to the pitch
According to LiveScore, these factors combine to make non-league football a uniquely immersive fan experience, proving it’s more than just a cheaper alternative to professional games.
Family Ties vs. Community Choice
The survey also reveals stark contrasts in how supporters choose their teams:
- Professional club fandom is often hereditary: 49% of fans support their club due to family ties, and 82% have been fans since childhood.
- Non-league fandom is community-driven: only 13% cite family ties, while 42% feel a strong connection to their local area.
“Non-league supporters are making an active, positive choice to engage with their local club,” the report notes, highlighting the grassroots game’s role in fostering community engagement.
Watching Football: Screen vs. Stadium
Professional football is largely a screen sport, with 79% of pro club fans following matches via TV or streaming. Non-league football, on the other hand, thrives in-person: 73% of non-league fans regularly attend matches.
This in-person experience underscores the value of live football at the grassroots level, offering something that streaming and social media cannot replicate.
The 3pm Blackout Debate
Only 27% of professional football fans believe the 3pm Saturday blackout protects non-league attendances, reopening the ongoing debate about its relevance in today’s game.
Bridging the Gap Between Fans
LiveScore’s survey also highlights a visibility gap: 55% of professional club fans are open to attending non-league matches, but 4 in 10 cannot name their local non-league club. The biggest incentive for first-time attendance? An invitation from a friend or family member.
Dominic Vye, Marketing Director at LiveScore, commented:
“Non-league is the lifeblood of English football, but there’s a visibility gap. By encouraging pro club fans to attend with friends, we can reconnect supporters with the heart of the game and ensure grassroots football thrives alongside the top tiers.”
Get Involved This Non-League Day
Non-League Day 2026 is a perfect opportunity for football fans to experience the unique atmosphere of grassroots football. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or new to the non-league scene, attending a match can showcase the sport’s community spirit and affordability.
For more details and to view the full survey results, visit LiveScore’s Non-League Fan Survey.
