My Journey as an Autistic Football Fan

Football has always been more than just a game. It brings people together, creates lasting memories and bonds. For me, it was an opportunity to connect with my then-girlfriend, now wife’s father. What started as a way to get to know my future father-in-law turned into a lifelong passion for the beautiful game.

Photo: Andrew Forsyth

I started watching football just 13 years ago. I grew up in a family that didn't have much interest in football. My parents liked Rugby, Tennis, Cycling (the tour de France theme tune still gives me nightmares). As a result, I never developed much of an interest in football either. That all changed when I met my future wife, Ellie. Her father, a fan, would often talk to me about the game and of course, Brighton and Hove Albion.

At first, I didn't understand the rules or the excitement surrounding the game. But as I watched more games and learnt about the different teams and players, I began to appreciate the subtleties and nuances in the game, the different tactics managers would employ, and importantly the real technical skill the players showed. On top of this I enjoyed the camaraderie and the banter with Ellie's father, and soon found myself looking forward to watching the games at the weekend.

Watching football on TV was the only way to comfortably experience the game. As someone on the autistic spectrum, I was anxious about finding the noise and crowds of the stadium overwhelming. The sensory overload could have been too much for me to handle and I was worried about feeling anxious and out of place.

As someone on the autistic spectrum, I was anxious about finding the noise and crowds of the stadium overwhelming.

But after being an ‘armchair fan’ for a number of years, throughout the league one promotion, play-off loss, and subsequent Premier League promotion, I realised I wanted to experience it live. The passion and energy of the stadium, the chants and songs of the fans, and the thrill of the game itself. It was too enticing to ignore. So, I took the leap and bought a ticket to my first live game.

The first football match I attended in person was a League Cup game against Southampton in August 2018. As I made my way to Falmer, my heart was pounding. The bright lights, the crowded trains, the deafening noise coming from the concourse - all of these were worries for me. As I approached the gates, I could feel my nerves getting the better of me. The noise from the crowds were already deafening, and I was struggling to keep my emotions in check. My wife, who had come along to support me, could sense my unease and put an arm around me.

With her help, I was able to take a deep breath and step through the gates. As we made our way to our seats, I could feel my heart rate starting to slow down. The stadium was packed with fans, but I could focus on my wife’s voice and the excitement of the game.

I started to find the energy and noise of the game a source of energy rather than stress and worry. I started to enjoy myself.

It was a poor match featuring mostly second-string players (remember when Bissouma was a backup player for us?) from both sides We seemed to match up pretty well against Southampton and we were hopeful we’d manage to get something out of the game. However, as the then goalless game drew to a close, Southampton scored in the 88th minute, sealing their place in the next round and leaving us feeling disappointed.

Despite the loss, I was hooked. The noise, the people I’d met, even the celebrations in the away end – I wanted to experience that elation for myself. I found myself wanting to learn even more about the team, and I began to watch much more regularly.

I also found comfort in the supportive community of fans, who welcomed me with open arms and understood my struggles. Though my autism presented distinct challenges, I, and most importantly the friends I made, did not let it hold me back from pursuing my ever-growing passion for the beautiful game.

I also found comfort in the supportive community of fans, who welcomed me with open arms and understood my struggles.

Attending matches became more of a part of my life. I’d look forward to the games, the energy, and the chance to cheer on the team. Despite the more than occasional loss, I remained dedicated to following the Albion and in time decided to purchase a season ticket. I wanted this to become a part of my routine and to feel like a part of the community. I also wanted to share this passion with my wife and her family.

Over time, my passion for football grew into a deep love for the sport. I began to obsess over the rules and strategies of the game, and became an expert of sorts. I joined fan groups, attended events, and even hopped on the occasional podcast immersing myself fully in the world of football.

I developed close friendships with other fans. I was passionate about the game and always eager to discuss the latest news and developments with fellow supporters. It was incredible, I found myself doing things I never thought possible - I was talking to people on the trains about the game, I was chatting on the concourse about lineups and performances, I had conversations with people I’d never known.

And that, for me, is the magic of football. Attending matches is a great way to relieve stress and to connect with others. I also appreciate the sense of community that came with being a fan of Brighton.

Today, I not only attend the men's matches regularly, but also hold a season ticket to the women's team. I have also introduced my own daughter (4 years old) to the sport- taking her regularly to the women's games in Crawley, and passing on my love of football to the next generation.

My experience is a testament to the power football has of bringing people together. What began as a way to connect with my girlfriend's family has turned into a lifelong passion. I found a sense of community and belonging in football that I never knew I was missing, and I am so grateful for the chance to share my love of the sport with others.

But my story is also a reminder that sometimes the best things in life come from unexpected places. By being open to new experiences and willing to try something different, I found a passion that has enriched my life in countless ways. And for that, I am grateful.

In the end, I hope my journey is one that inspires us to try new things and to embrace the unexpected. You never know where a new passion might lead you, and it's always worth taking a chance on something new. Following the Albion has enabled me to do things I never thought possible, despite being on the autism spectrum. Whether it's football or something else entirely, there's a whole world of possibilities out there waiting to be discovered.

Daniel Nutt