Author

Clara Ashdown

Sports Editor

Clara edits Fanboy Theatre and writes about training and gear. She plays five-a-side twice a week and has strong opinions about stud length.

Covers

  • training
  • gear
  • leagues
  • A rail of football boots in different colours, hung by their laces
    Buying guide

    Seven things to check before buying new boots

    The colourway is the last thing that matters. Fit, stud pattern and the surface you actually play on decide whether a pair lasts the season or lives in the cupboard by November.

    Clara Ashdown 7 min read

  • A rising set of steps with a runner at the top, standing for a training block that builds week by week
    Preseason

    How to build a preseason training block

    Six weeks is enough to arrive at the first game fit, not just keen. Here is how amateur players can build fitness in stages without turning August into an injury list.

    Clara Ashdown 8 min read