Sam Mills, a true football fanatic from Stourbridge, has dedicated his weekends to exploring and reviewing non-league football grounds throughout the UK. His journey includes watching matches at every level of the English football pyramid, from the Premier League’s pinnacle to free village football’s grassroots. With over 130 non-league grounds reviewed, Mills embarked on an ambitious mission to visit them all.
Venturing beyond the UK, Mills has witnessed the atmosphere of stadiums across Europe, including Lyon in France, Sporting Lisbon in Portugal, and Stade Nyonnais in Switzerland. His travels have spanned over £3,000 and covered an impressive 13,500 miles.
Inspired by the lifting of lockdown restrictions, Mills’ passion for groundhopping ignited. He embraced the opportunity to attend non-league football matches, immersing himself in the authentic spirit of the game. Mills recognizes the importance of grassroots football and aims to encourage more people to experience its unique charm.
Through his dedicated social media presence, Mills has amassed over 30,000 followers and garnered five million views. His reviews serve as a platform to promote local football clubs and the dedicated individuals who make these teams thrive. Mills hopes his efforts can bring increased attention and support for non-league football.
To ensure objectivity and thoroughness in his assessments, Mills evaluates stadiums based on atmosphere, ground quality, and the availability of food and drinks. Ribbesford Meadows, home to Bewdley Town, tops his list with an impressive 9.8/10 rating, followed by Doniford Road (War Memorial Ground) of Watchet Town with 9.7/10.
Balancing his passion with a full-time job, Mills manages to attend at least one game a week and has squeezed in an incredible five games in five days during Bank Holidays. While acknowledging the challenges of fitting in matches, Mills emphasizes his genuine enjoyment of the hobby and the camaraderie he experiences while exploring the world of football.
Mills encourages football enthusiasts to embrace the non-league experience, discovering the hidden gems and fostering a connection with their local clubs. He believes that the characters, stories, and history surrounding these teams create a rich tapestry that adds depth to the sport.
