'If we didn't raise subs, we'd be closed by 2027' - Manchester football club on shocking grassroots reality
A Manchester football club has lifted the lid on the mounting pressures grassroots teams are facing.
Dukinfield Youth and Town FC has revealed that it’s been forced to raise players subs by nearly 25 per cent just to keep the club running, a stark reflection of the financial strain many teams are now under.
The club’s coaches are among 1,000 that recently took part in a a new Net World Sports looking to expose the truth about grassroots clubs and their future.
The survey findings reveal:
The report found that most clubs rely on player subscriptions (90 per cent), sponsorships (75 per cent), and fundraising (55 per cent).
James Auty, manager and coach of Dukinfield Youth and Town FC, said rising costs are impacting their club's ability to function. He said: "We've recently had to put our subs up by nearly 25 per cent due to rising costs of running the football club. Whilst the fees bring us in line with other clubs across our borough, most of the players come from households hit the hardest due to the cost of living. If we hadn't raised the fees, the club would've ceased to operate from 2027.
“As grant applications are changing all the time, which we've relied on the past few years, we needed to make the change for the benefit of the club and young people who are part of it.”
Positive
One of the most encouraging trends in grassroots football is the growth of the women’s and girls’ game. Over half of clubs (56 per cent) now run female teams, up from 54 per cent in 2024, and an overwhelming 93 per cent have seen their women’s sides grow in recent years.
Amy Chadwick, director at Net World Sports, said, “Grassroots football is the beating heart of the game, bringing communities together and inspiring the next generation of players. Yet our research shows that too many clubs are struggling just to survive, held back by rising costs, stretched facilities, and a shortage of resources.
“What stands out, however, is the passion that keeps these clubs alive: the dedication of volunteers and the surge in women’s football prove there is real resilience and momentum. “With the right backing and targeted investment, grassroots football can not only survive but thrive, ensuring more people have the chance to play and enjoy the game for years to come.”
As part of the survey, all respondents were entered into a prize draw, with six clubs each winning vouchers to spend on FORZA equipment for their club.