Following in the footsteps of Guernsey, who play at Step 4 and the newly formed Jersey Bulls, who are currently competing in Step 6, a group from the Isle of Man have unveiled plans to create their very own football club, with ambitions to play in the Northwest Counties League in time for the start of next campaign.

This is brilliant news both for the Non-League system and players and fans living on the Isle of Man.

Last year I went to visit Guernsey, where I thoroughly enjoyed watching a match and have subsequently interviewed their manager Tony Vance on a number of occasions.

It was brilliant to see how the island’s community had really embraced the team and the atmosphere on matchday was a superb thing to be a part of.

When speaking to Vance it quickly becomes clear just how much pride he has taken in the project and the importance that it has had in developing young players on the island.

Whereas before, making the jump into the professional ranks was extremely hard for young footballers on the island, they now have the opportunity to showcase their talents in England throughout the year.

One of the big drawbacks of starting an island team is the high costs involved, which include having to pay for the travel of both themselves and their opponents, however both Guernsey and Jersey Bulls have demonstrated how, with the support of their local communities, these steep financial commitments can be managed.

The fact that Jersey Bulls were able to attract almost 1000 fans for their very first fixture at the start of the month shows both how island clubs can develop revenue and help to cultivate a special following across the community.

The Isle of Man bid is being led by National Team manager Paul Jones.

When interviewing him last week I was immediately struck by his immense passion for football on the island and his determination to see the project through

There have been plans in the pipeline to start a team on the Isle of Man for almost 15 years but for one reason or another the project has never come to fruition, until now

I wish Paul and his colleagues the absolute best of luck in creating a club because these island teams have the potential to unite their communities in such a unique way.