Project Restart

Exploring the challenges faced by seven football clubs during lockdown, Project Restart highlights their resilience and the future of the sport in a post-COVID world.

In Project Restart, the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, exploring how seven English football clubs navigated the unprecedented challenges of lockdown. The book delves into the emotional and logistical turmoil faced by clubs, from the Premier League to grassroots levels, as they grappled with furloughs, community initiatives, and the uncertain future of the sport. Through a collection of voices, it captures the essence of a sport that was forced to pause, reflecting on the broader implications of the pandemic on society and the game itself.

The author provides insightful case studies of each club, illustrating the hopes and fears of supporters while detailing the efforts made by club officials to ensure their survival. From Burnley in the Premier League to local teams in lower divisions, Project Restart paints a vivid picture of the resilience and adaptability of football in a time of crisis. The book highlights how the sense of community emerged stronger during these trying times, as clubs reached out to fans and local residents alike.

As the narrative progresses, it addresses the eerie experience of watching matches without crowds and the longing for normalcy. Ultimately, Project Restart poses critical questions about the future of football in a post-COVID world, encouraging readers to contemplate how the sport may evolve and the lasting impact of this global event on the beautiful game.