Seven things to do during the A-League offseason

With season eight of the Hyundai A-League done and dusted, the harsh reality of a near six month offseason is starting to sink in.

Thankfully though we've put together a list of things to keep you occupied and offset the withdrawal symptoms.

Looking to support a state league club? Why not APIA?

1. Pick a state league team

The various state leagues are up and running around the country and while the standard is a bit below that of the A-League, it might fill the gap for the fan who likes to watch football in person.

2. Join a team

Even better than watching someone else playing is actually kicking a ball around yourself. Whether it's amateur level, a social team or indoor 5-a-side there's nothing better than playing football so get up off your arse and get amongst it (if you aren't already of course).

3. Learn to rip flares

If the RBB has their way then flares are here to stay so you might as well get aboard the bandwagon. Fire twirling classes may also be beneficial.

4. Watch Major League Soccer

Most European leagues are also winding up but thankfully MLS will be going until October. In many ways comparable to the A-League, MLS has improved massively in recent seasons and the games are at a very friendly hour for us. You can also keep an eye on Tim Cahill. 

5. Start rumours about the next marquee signings

"Francesco Totti was just spotted munching on a pizza in Westfield Parramatta", "Frank Lampard has bought a summer house on the Central Coast", "Michael Owen is considering coming out of retirement and finds the idea of living in Perth very exciting"... The trick here is to not be too outlandish with your rumour, if it's even slightly plausible people will pick up on it and spread it like wildfire. When it makes one of the newspapers you can sit back with a satisfactory smile on your face.

6. Save for an away trip

If you haven't had the experience of supporting your team away from home then start planning it for season nine. Get yourself a football shaped piggy bank, start throwing odd dollars into it and keep an eye out for flight sales once the fixtures are released. You won't be disappointed.

7. Hibernate

Who doesn't love a good sleep? With that in mind, dozing off now with an alarm set for the first week of October certainly has its perks. Give yourself a few days before the big kick off to catch up on all the comings and goings around the league though.

If you have any more ways to get through this difficult period, let us know below!