Zac Bell: From Anfield Edition to Non-League Football Media Leadership
In the modern world of football, the influence of digital media has become just as significant as the performances on the pitch. Among the new generation of media leaders carving their niche in this evolving landscape, Zac Bell stands out as a dynamic figure. His journey reflects passion, persistence, and a self-driven approach that has taken him from running a fan-based platform to managing media and marketing for professional non-league football clubs.
Bell’s career trajectory combines creative flair with football expertise. From co-founding Anfield Edition, an award-winning Liverpool FC-focused platform, to his professional experience at Ramsgate Football Club and Ashford United Football Club, his story highlights both dedication to the sport and a natural ability to engage audiences.
Early Beginnings and Education
The Victory Academy, Chatham
Born and raised in Chatham, Kent, Zac Bell’s formative years were spent at The Victory Academy, where he studied business between 2012 and 2018. This academic background provided a foundation for his later ventures into media and marketing.
His education in business not only honed his organisational skills but also gave him an understanding of branding, promotion, and management—skills that would later prove vital in both his own projects and his professional club roles.
Anfield Edition: Building a Football Media Brand
The Birth of Anfield Edition
In 2016, Zac Bell co-founded Anfield Edition, a Liverpool-focused digital platform covering the latest news, analysis, and fan commentary on one of the world’s most celebrated clubs. What began as a passion project soon transformed into one of the most recognisable independent LFC channels.
Recognition and Growth
The success of Anfield Edition was not long in coming. Within just a few years, the platform had grown rapidly, attracting hundreds of thousands of followers. By 2022, the account had surpassed 239,000 followers on Twitter and became known for its engaging coverage, timely updates, and fan-focused interaction.
In recognition of its impact, Anfield Edition received two Football Content Awards—winning both the Fans’ Award and Judges’ Award for Best New Football Blog. These accolades, broadcast live across Sky Sports’ digital channels, confirmed the platform as a serious force in football media.
Collaborations and Interviews
One of the key strengths of Anfield Edition under Zac Bell’s leadership has been its ability to secure collaborations with influential figures in football. The platform has hosted interviews with former Liverpool players such as Kamil Grabara and John Arne Riise, as well as with Michael Beale, who went on to become manager of Rangers FC. These interviews not only added credibility to the platform but also brought fresh insights to fans hungry for behind-the-scenes perspectives.
Ramsgate Football Club: Learning in Non-League Football
Apprenticeship at Ramsgate FC
In 2018, Zac Bell expanded his football journey beyond fan media by joining Ramsgate Football Club as a Media Executive. His time at Ramsgate offered valuable first-hand experience of working within the professional football environment, particularly at the non-league level where resources are often limited.
Developing Skills On the Job
During nearly two years at Ramsgate, Bell developed a deep understanding of what it takes to run the media side of a semi-professional football club. From producing matchday content and engaging with supporters to managing internal communications, his apprenticeship was a period of accelerated growth.
This role taught him not just technical skills such as graphic design, content scheduling, and video editing, but also strategic thinking about how to promote a club, maintain professionalism, and sustain fan engagement even at grassroots levels.
Ashford United Football Club: Professional Growth
Joining Ashford United
In July 2021, Zac Bell was appointed Media and Marketing Officer at Ashford United Football Club, a role he continues to hold. His responsibilities are extensive and central to the club’s identity, covering everything from social media management and website updates to content creation and marketing materials.
Driving Media Engagement
Bell leads the club’s digital output, ensuring fans are kept informed through engaging content across multiple channels. He works closely with senior management to align media activities with the club’s wider goals, ensuring that every piece of communication reflects Ashford United’s ambitions.
Among his key contributions is the production of the matchday programme, a cornerstone of non-league football culture. By combining traditional print with digital strategies, he has enhanced the club’s brand identity and strengthened connections with supporters.
Skills and Qualities
Self-Taught Expertise
One of the most impressive aspects of Zac Bell’s career is that much of his knowledge has been self-taught. From graphic design and social media scheduling to video production and written communication, he has built his skill set through determination and practical application rather than formal training.
Creativity and Adaptability
His ability to adapt and take on new challenges has been central to his success. Whether interviewing high-profile football personalities, creating engaging social campaigns, or navigating the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic, Bell has consistently demonstrated resilience and creative thinking.
Zac Bell and Football Media
Impact on the Non-League Scene
Zac Bell’s journey reflects the increasing importance of media in shaping the identity of football clubs, particularly at the non-league level. His work has shown that professional-quality media coverage can elevate the profile of smaller clubs, strengthen fan engagement, and create revenue opportunities.
The Future of Football Content
Through Anfield Edition and his roles at Ramsgate and Ashford United, Bell has positioned himself at the crossroads of fan-driven content and professional club media management. His blend of passion and professionalism offers a model for how young professionals can build careers in football media without relying on traditional pathways.
Conclusion
Zac Bell is a shining example of how passion for football, combined with creativity and determination, can evolve into a professional career. From co-founding Anfield Edition—an award-winning Liverpool fan platform—to gaining valuable on-the-ground experience at Ramsgate Football Club and leading media operations at Ashford United Football Club, his story highlights the growing synergy between football and media in the modern era.
With a strong foundation in business from The Victory Academy, and a proven track record across both fan-led and professional projects, Zac Bell’s career continues to rise. His journey illustrates how dedication, adaptability, and self-motivation can transform enthusiasm for the beautiful game into a career that influences thousands of fans and strengthens football communities across the United Kingdom.
