Last updated : Tuesday, 04 March 2025
The Southern Amateur Football League (SAL) stands as one of London's premier amateur football competitions, offering competitive play across 19 divisions throughout the capital. Established in 1907, this historic league is affiliated with the Amateur Football Alliance (AFA) and has created opportunities for countless players to participate in organized football at various skill levels.
The SAL provides accessible football for everyone, regardless of ability, while maintaining the traditional values of amateur competition that have sustained it for over a century. From its inception, the league has fostered a sense of community among clubs and players, creating lasting rivalries and friendships across London.
Beyond regular league competition, the SAL has maintained a representative team throughout its history that competes against other leagues, universities, and member clubs during special celebrations. This tradition highlights the collaborative spirit of amateur football while showcasing the best talent from across the league's diverse membership.
History
The Southern Amateur Football League was established in 1907, serving as one of the premier amateur football competitions in England. Its creation came during a period when amateur football was seeking to distinguish itself from the growing professional game.
Initially formed with a smaller number of clubs, the league has grown substantially over its existence. Today, it encompasses approximately 180 teams distributed across 21 divisions, with 3 senior divisions standing at the top of the structure.
One distinctive aspect of the Southern Amateur League is its unusual organization. Despite having nearly 20 divisions, the league operates with only about 34 member clubs. This structure exists because each club enters multiple teams into different divisions of the competition.
During World War II, the league continued to operate, with records showing seasons from 1940 through 1943. This demonstrates the league's resilience even during challenging historical periods.
The league shares historical connections with the Amateur Football Alliance, which was founded in 1906 as the Amateur Football Defence Council. Initially known briefly as the Amateur Football Defence Federation, it later reformed into its current identity.
Throughout its history, the Southern Amateur Football League has maintained comprehensive records of its competitions. Archive records show continuous operation through the mid-20th century and beyond, with documented seasons spanning the 1920s through the 1980s and continuing to the present day.
Age Groups and Divisions
The Southern Amateur Football League (SAL) organizes competition across multiple age groups and divisions, creating a structured framework for amateur football in London. For the 2023-24 season, the league accommodates over 40 open-aged member clubs and several veterans-only clubs.
These clubs collectively field approximately 190 teams competing across 17 divisions. The league structure follows a clear hierarchical system with different tiers of competition.
The divisions are organized into three main sections:
Senior Section:
- Senior Division 1
- Senior Division 2
- Senior Division 3
- Senior Division 4
Intermediate Section:
- Intermediate Division 1
- Intermediate Division 2
Junior Section:
- Junior Division 1 North
- Junior Division 2 North
- Other Junior divisions
Teams typically play each other twice per season unless otherwise specified for particular divisions. The competition format allows clubs to field multiple teams across different divisions.
The main focus of the SAL is on open-aged football, though they also provide opportunities for veterans. This tiered structure enables teams to compete at appropriate levels based on their skill and experience.
The current standings in several divisions are competitive, with Senior Division 3 and Senior Division 4 featuring tight races between the top teams. This balanced competition helps maintain the league's appeal to clubs throughout London.
Committee/Staff/Contacts
The Southern Amateur Football League (SAL) is managed by a dedicated committee that oversees league operations and representative teams. Leadership roles are filled by experienced individuals committed to maintaining the league's traditions and standards.
Bob Leeds serves as the President and Representative Team Secretary. He also acts as the AFA Representative and is affiliated with Old Finchleians. For direct contact, Bob can be reached via email at bobleeds@hotmail.co.uk or by phone at 01707-850-339 or 07930-217-857.
The SAL Representative Team is managed by Dominic Roberts, who selects talented players from across the league's member clubs.
Club officials who believe they have players capable of competing at the representative level should contact Dominic directly. He can be reached via email at domroberts83@gmail.com.
The committee structure ensures efficient administration of the various divisions within the league, including the Senior Division 1 and Junior Division 1 South, among others.
Regular meetings allow for discussion of league matters, fixture arrangements, and disciplinary issues as they arise throughout the season.
Teams
The Southern Amateur Football League (SAL) boasts an impressive roster of member clubs. As of the 2023-24 season, the league features over 40 open-aged member clubs and several veterans-only clubs, fielding approximately 190 teams across 17 divisions.
Many clubs have rich histories within London's amateur football scene. Notable teams include Civil Service F.C., one of the oldest clubs in the league with significant historical importance in English football.
Crouch End Vampires F.C. represents another established club within the SAL structure. Other prominent teams include Cambridge Heath, Carshalton, and City of London.
The geographical spread of clubs covers much of London and surrounding areas. Richmond & Kew, based at Ham Playing Fields in Richmond, exemplifies the league's presence across the capital region.
Teams in the league include:
- Cambridge City F.C.
- Cheshunt F.C.
- Civil Service F.C.
- Crouch End Vampires F.C.
- East Barnet Old Grammarians
- East Grinstead Town F.C.
- Eastbourne Town F.C.
- Hastings F.C.
- Dorkinians
- Colebrook Royals
- Chattan
Many clubs hold FA Charter Standard status, demonstrating their commitment to quality coaching, administration and player development. This certification indicates teams that meet specific standards set by England's Football Association.
The wide distribution of teams across London makes the SAL accessible to players throughout the capital, maintaining its status as London's premier amateur football league.
Players
The Southern Amateur Football League boasts a diverse pool of talented amateur footballers across its numerous divisions. Players range from former professionals to university students, all united by their passion for the game.
Team managers in the SAL actively scout for skilled individuals who can strengthen their squads. As noted in the search results, the league has a representative team managed by Dominic Roberts, who selects standout players from across the league's clubs.
Clubs interested in recommending their talented players for representative matches can contact Dominic Roberts directly at domroberts83@gmail.com. This opportunity allows exceptional players to showcase their skills at a higher competitive level.
With approximately 190 teams across 17 divisions, the SAL provides playing opportunities for thousands of amateur footballers in London. The league structure accommodates various skill levels, from elite amateurs in the Senior Division to developing players in lower tiers.
Many SAL clubs have strong alumni connections, particularly those with "Old" in their names (like Old Wilsonians and Old Wimbledonians), drawing players from school or university networks. This creates strong team bonds and continuity.
Veterans' divisions cater specifically to older players, ensuring that footballers can continue competing as they age. This inclusive approach helps maintain the league's strong player retention and community feel.
