The Manchester Football League was formed in 1893, with the intention to provide football for the many industries that were based in Manchester.  It offered, at that time a competitive League that cotton, steel, and paper companies readily bought into.

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There was a stoppage for the First World War, and then a further stoppage for the Second World War, but following that second stoppage the League re-commenced fixtures, and it began to expand quickly.  The standard of football encouraged teams like Manchester City and Manchester United to use the League as a stepping stone for both it’s A teams and its B teams to enter the League.  Further former football League teams such as Bury, Macclesfield, joined its ranks, together with teams currently higher in the football Pyramid, such as Hyde United, Buxton, and Curzon Ashton also being active Member Clubs.

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The League has continued to grow each year, and still offers a high standard of competitive football, for Clubs based in and around Greater Manchester, and has Clubs currently affiliated to five County Football Associations.

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It provides a positive platform for Referee development through their various promotions, with experienced Referees and former Referees always on hand to offer help and advice.

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In 2018, the League became a Limited Company by Guarantee, a further progressive step in ensuring a stable and positive approach to its football, for all members of the Community.  We have an open approach to individuals needs of player irrespective of gender, colour, sexuality or religion.

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The League currently has five Divisions, and for the 2023-2024 season has introduced a Development Division to work with players from 16 - 23 years of age.  It is an exciting time to be a member of the League. 

 

Whilst we continue to grow, we can only grow if Clubs, Players, Match Officials and the Committee work to ensure its continued progression and success.