The Final Whistle’s Gone… But Sport in Greater Manchester Is Just Getting Started!
- Tom Roberts
- Jun 9
- 4 min read
As the season comes to an end I sit here now writing this thinking “what do I do now?” The nets are taken down, the turf is lifted, the stadium falls silent, and the pie man settles down for a well-deserved rest. So, what do I do now?
I know many people, like our glorious leader here at GR8R MCR, aren’t into football, so to them nothing has changed. But for me, well… it’s different. My weekends aren’t going to be spent on the terraces shouting, “PASS THE BALL!” or in the pub with the lads shouting, “PASS THE BALL!” I won’t be tired after that late-night playoff game, nor will I have the banter at work when my team lost and I have to take the flack.
So, what do I do?
Well luckily, if football is or isn’t your thing, I remembered what a fantastic array of sports teams we have in Greater Manchester whose seasons are already underway or just starting out for the summer months.
SO! Let me give you a quick guide to what else you sports fans can turn your attention to, while we wait patiently for football to return!
American Football
In the UK, NFL is like Marmite, you love it or hate it. For many, there are too many breaks, and some say why do they need armour? They don’t use it in rugby!
For others, it’s intense, aggressive and passionate. Plus, who doesn’t love seeing a 70-yard “Hail Mary” in the last moments of the game?
Here’s the teams you’re able to watch or even join!
Manchester Titans
Competing in the BAFA National League, they’re Manchester’s biggest NFL team, based at the National Speedway in Gorton, usually playing on Sundays and currently topping the league UNDEFEATED!
They also have a flag team for those who prefer a less contact sport.
Bolton Bulldogs
Competing in the lower leagues of the BAFA, they play their home games at Smithills School.
Manchester Crows Flag Football
This team is flag football only. This is where players have tags attached to them and are classed as “tackled” should the flag be taken by an opposing player.
They were the 2024 champions of the BAFA Flag League and are currently celebrating their 10th anniversary. They play their home games at the David Lewis Sports Ground in Salford.
Baseball
Again, here it’s a Marmite sport for us Brits, but America’s pastime still has a dedicated following! The old ball game has a special place in my heart as a Chicago Cubs fan and the MLB community in the UK goes out in full force when the MLB comes to the UK.
With home runs, fast pitching and some huge leaps to snatch a run out of the sky, maybe you should give it a go!
Manchester Baseball Club
Established in 1947 and based at Wythenshawe Park, they have multiple teams to suit all ages and levels, from coed teams to visually impaired to the A’s, who are in the Double A National League. They offer the chance to join at any level or experience, or simply go along and get behind the team!
They are free to watch, so no expense spent if it turns out not to be your thing… but you never know.
Cricket
We all know this one, stumps, lunch and the Barmy Army! The English fans follow England all over the world and take a phenomenal atmosphere everywhere they go.
There are plenty of local teams throughout Greater Manchester, but from a spectator point of view, there’s the big one here in GM.
Lancashire County Cricket Club
Based at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester, LCCC are one of the most prominent teams in England since its foundation in 1864, currently competing in the County Championship Division 2. They have a variety of teams aside from Lancashire Men.
With the likes of Flintoff (father and son), Anderson and Phillip, Lancashire has hosted many big names and internationals from all over the globe.
Old Trafford also hosts many international matches and they certainly are not to be missed for a day of sunshine, cold beer and hopefully a wicket or two for Lancashire!
Softball
I’m sure we all played this at school at one point or another, the moment when the big lad would step up to bat and you all shuffled backwards like he was prime Babe Ruth!
With the pitching different to its brother baseball, and a shorter bat, the sport of softball has always been seen as more inclusive.
Manchester Softball League
Rather than focus on one team here, I’m going to note Greater Manchester’s league. With teams all over and levels to suit everyone, this game can be played or watched at your own choice.
Why not see the website below and see if your local team is there?
From the Mossley Mayhem to Manchester Thunder, there are plenty of teams to get behind and support!
Rugby League
Lastly, we have rugby, a vicious game played by gentlemen (usually). Hard-hitting, drop-kicking entertainment with a huge following.
At the moment, Union is at an end but you can still get your fix of Rugby League!
Rugby needs no further explanation, we all know it. And whether you’re a die-hard fan, or just watch the Six Nations, don’t forget we have some great teams here in GM!
Salford Red Devils
Founded in 1873 and playing their home games at the Salford Community Stadium, they compete in the Super League, which they last won in 1976. However, their lack of trophies hasn’t stopped its loyal fans backing them game after game.
With a top-quality stadium and fair ticket prices, the Devils are certainly one to watch if you’re missing the football season as I am and need your live sport fix.
Now I know there are many more sports and sports teams here in Greater Manchester, but I have only listed the ones whose seasons are currently underway, and therefore able to have the live experience to soak up the atmosphere or try a new sport.
However, if you feel I’ve missed something, feel free to drop us a line!
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