Sheffield FC

Sheffield FC – The World's Oldest Football ClubGeneral Overview

• Founded: October 24, 1857
• Location: Sheffield, England
• Nicknames: "The Club"
• Status: Recognized as the oldest football club in the world still in existence.

• First Club in Football History:
  • Established before The Football Association (FA), making it the oldest independent soccer club.
• Founders: Nathaniel Creswick and William Prest, who also played a key role in shaping early football rules.
• Sheffield Rules:
  • In 1858, the club created one of the earliest sets of football rules, influencing the modern game.
• FA Recognition:
  • In 2004, FIFA awarded Sheffield FC the FIFA Order of Merit, an honor given to only two clubs: Sheffield FC and Real Madrid.

• First Derby:
  • Sheffield FC played against Hallam FC (1860) in what is now called the "Sheffield Derby", the oldest club rivalry.
• Played a Key Role in Football Development:
  • Helped standardize football rules before the formation of the Football Association (1863).
• Influence on the Game:
  • Introduced early elements like the free kick, corner kick, and crossbar.

• League: Plays in the Northern Premier League Division One East (lower English football tiers).
• Stadium: The Home of Football Stadium in Dronfield, Derbyshire.
• Heritage Club: Although it doesn't compete in professional leagues, Sheffield FC remains a historical icon in world football.