A brand new football attraction has opened its doors in the UK. Footy Nation, the UK’s first indoor football skills park, is now welcoming visitors in Southport.
The new venue opened this weekend at Ocean Plaza Leisure, near the seafront. Husband and wife team Michelle and Matthew Ball are behind the concept, which has created nearly 40 jobs for local people. Footy Nation will be open seven days a week.
A New Concept for Football Fans
Michelle and Matthew Ball, who have two sons, wanted to create a venue that was creative, fun and exciting. Footy Nation has opened in time for the school Easter holidays and has already seen huge interest.
Southport’s newest leisure attraction combines structured, skill-based challenges with interactive football games. The purpose-built, weather-proof environment is designed for players of all ages and abilities.
Football-Based Challenge Games
Footy Nation features a series of football-based challenge games. These include Match Ball, Curve Ball, Score Ball, Kick Ball, Spin Ball and Pin Ball.
Each activity is designed to test different elements of the game. Accuracy, control, reactions and technique are all put to the test.
The site also includes a cafe bar, boot room, merchandise stalls and additional mini-games. The owners have transformed two units at Ocean Plaza Leisure, formerly occupied by a Chinese buffet restaurant and a burger restaurant.
Years in the Making
Michelle Ball said they were excited to be opening Footy Nation. She added that the site has been in build for the past nine months and that this day has taken a long time coming.
The concept has been in planning for the past three and a half years. Michelle’s husband, Matthew, is an engineer who has designed a series of games.
They have been working with programmers to combine football with technology. This allows visitors to keep track of their scores as they go around the venue.
More Than Just a Game
According to Michelle Ball, there is nothing else like this in the UK or in the world. They already run a series of successful inflatables venues across the UK and have a background in the leisure industry.
As parents, they felt there was a gap in the market and a need for somewhere like this. They asked what there was after soft play for kids and adults who love football, apart from playing football on an outdoor pitch.
Footy Nation is for everyone, not just kids. Anyone of any age or ability can come and have a go, whether they’re a complete beginner, a grassroots player or just want to have a kickabout with friends.
- School friends
- Colleagues on a work outing
- 20-somethings wanting to have a fun time together before heading for a night out
People can book Footy Nation for parties or work team-building days out, subject to availability.
The new attraction adds to a vibrant area which already offers a bowling alley, cinema, Playtown, a gym, and local restaurants.