Welcome to The Dugout
All our guides, reviews and creative ideas for football families, in one place.
Matchday Guides
Informative Guides For Parents of Football-Mad Kids
Whether it's your child's first trip to a major stadium, keeping track of the latest sticker or trading card craze, or working out which matches they can actually stay up for - football throws a lot at parents.
These guides are built from real-world trial and error, covering everything from bag policies and family-friendly seating to sticker albums and kick-off times, so you're always one step ahead.
Tested & Reviewed
We test the venues and gear - so you don't waste your weekend or your money.
Is it worth the time and money?
We provide analytical, parent-first reviews of football experiences and gear.
Whether we're testing interactive venues like Ballerz and TOCA Social or assessing the latest matchday essentials, we do the scouting so you can make the best call for your young fan.
Football Family Life
Creative Inspiration for Football Families
The beautiful game doesn't end at the final whistle.
We share creative ideas and real family stories - from birthday parties to what to do with a loft full of old shirts - to bring the excitement of football into your home life.
Meet Rob…
I'm a life-long football lover, football writer by trade and a dad of three young children - including my football-mad eldest, Ryan.
Starlet Media was born from the realisation that navigating the world of youth football can be challenging for both new’ish and experienced parents.
I combine my background in sports media with real-world parenting experience to give you the tactics board you actually need.
Frozen fingers, muddy boots, and a car boot disaster waiting to happen - here's how to actually survive a grassroots football winter, tried and tested.