Signing up for something new always comes with a bit of nervous energy. What if everyone else is really good? What if I do not know anyone? What do I even wear? If any of these thoughts sound familiar, you are not alone. Almost every one of our players felt the same way before their first session.
The truth is, your first time at All About Football is going to be far more relaxed than you expect. Here is a complete breakdown of what happens so you can turn up with confidence.
Before You Arrive
What to Wear
Keep it simple. You need comfortable sportswear that you can move freely in, a pair of trainers or astro turf boots (most of our pitches are 3G or 4G artificial surfaces), and shin pads if you have them, although they are not compulsory.
Avoid wearing anything with zips, buckles, or jewellery that could catch on other players. Other than that, there is no dress code. Wear whatever you would normally exercise in.
What to Bring
- Water bottle – You will need it, especially in the warmer months.
- A towel – Optional, but useful if you want to freshen up afterwards.
- A positive attitude – That is genuinely the most important thing.
You do not need to bring a ball, bibs, or any other equipment. We provide everything.
Payment
Sessions cost between £6 and £9 depending on the venue. Payment is made in advance to secure your place, and it is pay-as-you-play, so there is no membership fee or ongoing commitment. If you cannot make a session, just mark yourself out and you will not be charged.
Arriving at the Venue
We recommend arriving about 5 to 10 minutes early, especially for your first session. This gives you time to find the pitch, say hello, and get your bearings. Our organisers will be there and are easy to spot. Do not be afraid to introduce yourself and let them know it is your first time. They will make sure you are looked after.
Most of our venues have free parking and changing facilities, although many players simply arrive ready to play.
The Warm-Up
Sessions typically begin with a short warm-up. Nothing intense, just some light jogging and stretching to get the blood flowing and reduce the chance of injury. It is a good opportunity to have a chat with the other players and settle any nerves.
If you arrive a few minutes after the warm-up has started, do not worry. Just join in when you get there. Nobody is watching the clock.
How Teams Are Picked
This is the part that worries people the most, but it could not be more straightforward. There are no awkward playground-style picks. When you sign up, you provide your preferred position and a self-assessed skill level. Our organisers use this information to balance the teams before each session so that games are fair and competitive.
Teams change every week. You might be on one side this week and a completely different one the next. This keeps things fresh and means you get to play with everyone over time.
The Game Itself
Games are typically 7v7, 8v8, or 9v9, depending on numbers and pitch size. We play on half-pitches with small goals, which keeps the action fast and ensures everyone gets involved. You will not spend the entire game standing on a wing waiting for the ball to come to you.
Basic Rules
- No sliding tackles – We keep it safe and friendly.
- No heavy challenges – A bit of contact is fine, but nothing aggressive.
- Goals restart from the keeper – No walking back to the centre spot.
- Half-time break – We switch ends at half time and take a quick breather.
- Rotating goalkeepers – Everyone takes a turn in goal. Keepers rotate every 6 to 7 minutes, coordinated by the organisers. No one is stuck there all night.
The games are self-refereed for the most part, and disputes are rare. The atmosphere is friendly and supportive. If you make a mistake, you will get encouragement, not criticism.
The Atmosphere
This is probably the most important thing to understand about All About Football: it is not competitive. Yes, people want to win. Yes, there are good goals and good saves. But the overriding feeling is one of enjoyment. People are there to have fun, get some exercise, and socialise.
You will hear a lot of laughter on the pitch. You will see experienced players giving the ball to someone who has been quiet and encouraging them to have a shot. You will see people who arrived alone chatting away with their teammates after the game.
We have a mix of ages and abilities at every session. Some players are in their twenties, some in their fifties. Some played at a decent level when they were younger, and some are picking it up for the first time. That variety is what makes it work.
After the Game
Once the final whistle goes, most people stick around for a few minutes to cool down, have a drink of water, and chat. Some venues have nearby pubs or cafes where players head afterwards, although that is entirely optional.
You will probably feel physically tired but mentally refreshed. Most first-timers leave thinking the same thing: "Why did I not do this sooner?"
Still Not Sure?
That is completely fine. The best advice we can give is to just try it once. There is no commitment, no contract, and no pressure. Sign up, pick a session near you, and come along. We are confident you will enjoy it, but if it is not for you, that is okay too. You will have only spent an evening and a few pounds finding out.
We look forward to seeing you on the pitch.