Club News - April!

🏆 Glasgow Trophy Delivers Five Days of Fantastic Football

The Glasgow Trophy, hosted at Toryglen, brought together an incredible five days of walking football action. A total of 124 teams from all over the UK took part, showcasing the sport's growing popularity and community spirit. With over 1,200 players involved, the event was a massive success. A huge congratulations to all the winners and participants who made the tournament so memorable.

🤝 Local Sponsorship Boosts Club Ambitions

Clubs continue to benefit from fantastic local business support:

• Scone WFC has partnered with Stagecoach as they gear up to represent Scotland in an international competition in Austria.

• Meanwhile, Whitletts Victoria Women have received stylish new strips and kit, kindly sponsored by The Bell Rock Bar.

It’s great to see the community backing these teams as they continue to grow and compete.

🔍 Regional Trials Heat Up in the North East

The road to regional team selection continues, with the North East Over-65s holding successful trials in Glenrothes. The sessions have been competitive and full of talent, giving selectors a tough but exciting challenge ahead of upcoming fixtures.

🐣 Dundee East CSC Give Back at Easter

Dundee East CSC once again showed their commitment to the local community by collecting and distributing Easter eggs for children in the area. Their generosity brought plenty of smiles over the holiday and highlighted the club’s ongoing dedication to making a positive impact off the pitch.

WFS O65's West Premiership

The WFS O65’s West of Scotland League resumes on Friday 25th April, with Round 2 action set to unfold at Toryglen Regional Football Centre in Glasgow.

Pollok Utd head into the second round full of confidence, sitting proudly at the top of the table after securing maximum points in Round 1. With momentum firmly on their side, they’ll be aiming to continue their unbeaten run and strengthen their position at the summit.

But Round 2 presents a busy and testing schedule for the early pacesetters, who are set to face Largs, Motherwell, and Giffnock North across what promises to be an action-packed day of football. Each opponent will be keen to halt Pollok’s charge and make their own move up the standings.

With the table still in its formative stages, every point is crucial—and fixtures could go a long way in shaping the title race.

We wish all teams all the very best!

WFS O65's East Premiership

Friday 25th April marks the return of the WFS O65’s East of Scotland League as Round 2 gets underway at the Oriam National Performance Centre in Edinburgh.

Following an exciting opening round, North Lanarkshire Council and Alloa Athletic sit joint top of the table, level on points and momentum as they aim to strengthen their hold at the summit. Both teams showcased impressive form in Round 1, but the path ahead promises to be far from straightforward—especially for Alloa Athletic.

Alloa face a tough double challenge in Round 2 as they come up against current third-placed Hearts and fourth-placed Linlithgow Rose. With both sides within striking distance of the top, these fixtures are expected to be fiercely contested and could prove pivotal in shaping the early league standings.

North Lanarkshire Council will be looking to capitalise on any slip-ups from their co-leaders while continuing their own strong start.

With several clubs already making strong statements and others eager to climb the table, Round 2 promises to deliver plenty of drama, intensity, and high-quality football.

We wish teams all the very best!

WALKING FOOTBALL SCOTLAND ANNUAL MEMBERS MEETING

To all Walking Football Scotland SCIO affiliated Club representatives 

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEMBERS MEETING 

Notice is hereby given that the Annual Members Meeting (AMM) of Walking Football Scotland SCIO will be held in Media Centre West, Hampden Park, Glasgow on Monday 28 April 2025 at 1pm. The Agenda is set out below. The AMM is in person only.  Light refreshments will be available. 

Attendees are also welcome to join WFS earlier at 11am in the same location for the live draw for this years WFS Scottish Cup & Festival.

I would appreciate it if you can please confirm the Clubs intention to attend the AMM by emailing: treasurer@walkingfootballscotland.org 

Kenny McLean 

President Walking Football Scotland SCIO   

4 April 2025 

AGENDA

1. Welcome and Introduction by WFS President 

2. Apologies for absence 

3. Approval of Minutes of previous years AMM held on 8 March 2024

4.  Presidents Report on the activities of the Charity during year ended 31 December 2024 

5. Adoption of the Trustees report and financial statements for year ended 31 December 2024 including the report of the Independent Examiner 

6. Reappointment of French Duncan t/a AAB as Independent Examiners

7. Re-election of Trustees

8. Any other business
   

WFS O50's East Premiership, Championship & Conference

The WFS Over 50s East of Scotland League roared back into action today at the Regional Performance Centre in Dundee for Round 2 of the season, delivering a day full of drama, goals, and shifting league positions.

In the Premiership, Forfar continued their impressive form, building on a strong start to the campaign. They remain unbeaten and hold a narrow but valuable 2-point lead over a determined Arbroath side, who also showed their quality in Round 2.

The Championship saw a shake-up at the top, with Linlithgow Rose emerging as the new leaders. After a strong set of results, they now sit 2 points clear of Carnoustie Panmure, who are second but remain well within reach as the title race heats up.

Over in the Conference, the battle for promotion is getting even tighter. Saints in the Community secured a crucial opening match win over table-toppers Fife Wanderers, a result that sees them leapfrog into first place. But it’s far from settled — with Fife Wanderers and Fort William hot on their heels, just 2 points separate the top three teams heading into the break.

As the league pauses for the summer, anticipation is already building for the second half of the season, which resumes on Sunday, 31st August. With everything still to play for across all divisions, Round 3 promises even more action and excitement.

We look forward to welcoming players, fans, and teams back in August for what is shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion to the season!

WFS O50's West Premiership, Championship & Conference

The WFS Over 50s West of Scotland League returned to action today for Round 2 at the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility, marking the restart of the season with a series of exciting and closely contested fixtures across all divisions.

In the Premiership, Motherwell FC CT - Claret and Saint Anthony's - Greens find themselves neck-and-neck at the summit. Both sides are level on points, with only a single goal separating them in what promises to be a nail-biting title race heading into the second half of the season.

Over in the Championship, Dumbarton FC continue their dominant form. The team remains unbeaten and now sits three points clear at the top, with Glenafton Athletic trailing behind in second place. Dumbarton's consistency has made them early favourites for promotion.

Meanwhile, the Conference has seen a dramatic tightening of the table. Newcomers Motherwell Phoenix pulled off a crucial final match victory over leaders WEBATA — also league debutants — bringing the gap at the top down to just one point. With several teams still in contention, the battle for promotion remains wide open.

The league now enters its summer break, but all eyes are already on the next set of fixtures when the season resumes on Sunday, 31st August.

See you all back on the pitch in August!

ARTHUR DUNCAN MEMORIAL AWARD WINNER 2024 - BILLY BROWN

𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗨𝗥 𝗗𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗔𝗡 𝗠𝗘𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗟 𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗗 𝗪𝗜𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗥 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 - 𝗕𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗬 𝗕𝗥𝗢𝗪𝗡

‘𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝑶𝒖𝒕𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝑾𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑭𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒃𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒊𝒏 𝑺𝒄𝒐𝒕𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒅.’

Arthur Duncan was a long-standing supporter and contributor to Walking Football in Scotland and was a fervent supporter of the social playing sessions and what it contributed to the “society” of players. Arthur was also a very talented man and along with ex-Chair, Gary McLaughlin created the WFS logo, later assigning copyright over the logo to Walking Football Scotland.

In recognition of his contribution, Walking Football Scotland launched the above award in 2022 for outstanding contribution to the game locally and among the community.

Prior to our AMM several excellent candidates were nominated from across the country and we are delighted to announce that the winner of the Arthur Duncan Memorial Award for 2024 is Edinburgh City’s, 𝗕𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗬 𝗕𝗥𝗢𝗪𝗡.

Along with ourselves, Edinburgh City Walking Football (ECWF) is proud to celebrate the well-deserved recognition of Billy Brown, for his outstanding contribution to walking football in Scotland.

As the organiser and social convenor of ECWF, Billy has played a vital role in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for players of all backgrounds ensuring that matches are played with the right spirit and ethos. His dedication, unwavering commitment, and infectious sense of humour have made a lasting impact on the walking football community. Always available for a chat, he brings dignity and integrity to everything he does, never seeking recognition but simply enjoying the sport and the camaraderie it brings.

Billy’s passion for organising and promoting walking football has helped ECWF grow and thrive. His hard work behind the scenes ensures that players have the best possible experience, both on and off the pitch ensuring he checks up on those that have not been able to attend for some time.

Billy is an inspiration to us all and beyond and on behalf of WFS, and the wider walking football community in Scotland, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Billy on this well-earned honour. Thank you for everything you do!

Billy, was presented with the Award at Hampden Park by President Kenny McLean.

Special congratulations to the other high quality nominations that included:

- Iain McLeod| Tweedvale

- Jim Paterson | Carrick WFC

- Mohrag Mitchell | Ardler CWFC

- Peter Frame | Loanhead

- Linsey Paton-Donaldson | Stenhousemuir

Photography - Phil Dawson

New WFS Football Announcement

Walking Football Scotland is excited to announce that a new official match ball will be introduced for Round 2 of the competitive leagues, starting this Sunday. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to RJM Sports and Uhlsport for their continued support in providing high-quality equipment that enhances the game for all players.

This new ball, which proudly shows the WFS logo, has been selected to ensure the best possible playing experience, maintaining the standards of our competitive leagues while supporting the growth of walking football across Scotland.

We look forward to seeing it in action this weekend—good luck to all teams competing!

Club News - April

International Connection Rekindled

Dunbar Walking Football Club had the pleasure of welcoming Reto Inderbitzin, President of Walking Football Switzerland, as they rekindled their connection following their initial meeting in Mallorca in 2023. This reunion further strengthens the bonds between international walking football communities, emphasising the sport’s ability to bring people together across borders.

Welcoming Anatoliy Holap

The club have been delighted to welcome Anatoliy Holap, originally from Ukraine, who arrived in the UK three years ago with his wife, daughter, and grandson after their home was tragically destroyed due to ongoing conflict. Sadly, his son remains in Ukraine fighting for his country. A former youth player at Dnipro, Anatoliy has quickly become a valued member of the Dunbar squad. Rarely missing a game, he thrives on the camaraderie and good-natured banter with his new Scottish teammates, embodying the spirit of resilience and friendship that walking football promotes.

Hearts O65s Celebrate Scottish Cup Victory

In other news, Hearts O65s recently had the honour of parading the Scottish Cup at an SPFL match, celebrating their victory from last June. This was a fantastic opportunity for the team to showcase their achievement and inspire others in the walking football community.

Craig Molloy Coaching’s First Match

Additionally, newly affiliated club Craig Molloy Coaching played their first match, enjoying a great day of fun and camaraderie with John Sutton Community Club. This marks the beginning of what promises to be a fantastic journey for the team as they become more involved in the walking football community.

Townhead Strollers Welcome Samaritans Scotland

Townhead Strollers were delighted to welcome Samaritans Scotland, who spent time chatting with the players about combatting social isolation. They were eager to learn about the positive impact walking football has as a preventative measure, reinforcing the importance of sport in promoting mental well-being and community connections.

Honouring Stranraer’s Football Veterans

Finally, a special function and day out was held in Stranraer to celebrate four players who have made a lasting impact on the club. Johnny Gellately, Raymond Nish, Davie MacMillan, and John Small—all in their 80s—were honoured for their dedication and service to football and Stranraer Walking Football. Each was presented with a gift as a token of appreciation for their commitment and contribution to the sport. Well done guys!

stranraer

dunbar

hearts

craig molloy & john sutton cc

townhead strollers

Player of the Month (March) - Alan Turner & Jen Currie-Jenkins

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In partnership with charity partners, CHSS, we are keeping up with our monthly spotlight on our Walking Football Scotland Players of the Month! 

For March the Walking Football Scotland Women’s Player of the Month is Jennifer Currie-Jenkins! Jennifer, 41, plays with Stenhousemuir.

Walking Football Scotland Men’s Player of the Month is Alan Turner! Alan, 67, plays with Dunbar WFC

Congratulations Jen and Alan! They shared their reflections on what Walking Football means to them.

Why did you get involved in walking football?

Jennifer: “I first got involved in walking football by going along to see my husband play. He had moved up from Wales and was looking to meet new people and get back into playing football. I was very overweight and unfit so knew that playing recreational football was not an option. I thought Walking football was a good starting point to get back into playing again.”

Alan: “Initially I got involved in walking football mainly to play a game I love and take some exercise while meeting new people.”

What positive impact has walking football had on your life?

Jennifer: “When you tell people you play walking football they tend to laugh and say “do you even break a sweat?”. I can assure you folks, we most certainly do! The health benefits have been amazing both mental and physical. The steps you do in a training session and or game would shock most people who think the sport is just for “auld folk”.

“I, like many others have suffered with my mental health and walking football has very much helped me. It gives me a routine, a reason to leave the house and something positive to focus on when I am low. It’s also helped me meet new people and gives me the opportunity to play in teams with people of all ages and abilities. I have made lifelong friends because of walking football and look forward to making more. I started as a defender but found I liked playing in goal so have stayed there. I still see myself as being a “new” goalie so it’s helped me learn new skills too.”

Alan: “Walking football has made me fitter and healthier both physically and mentally. It has increased my social circle and given me the opportunity to support local charities. I have made new friends and can take part in a modified version of the game I love. Playing competitive walking football is a thrill you can still experience.”

What would you say to encourage others to come along?

Jennifer: “The great thing about walking football is you can be a complete novice or an ex professional and still enjoy playing. It’s given me the opportunity to play in teams with people of all ages and abilities. It’s also accessible for those with different disabilities. All are welcome and encouraged to join in. Winning also means something different for everyone. For me it’s keeping a clean sheet or letting in one less goal from my last game, for others it’s taking part, scoring a goal or cutting out a pass.”

Alan: “Come and give walking football a try! You won’t regret it! You will improve your fitness, ball skills, make new friends and enjoy a controlled game of football. You can either play locally or take part in competitive fixtures which is entirely your own choice. Improve your mental health too by playing a sport you will grow to love along with like-minded people.”

WFS O60's West Premiership & Championship

The WFS O60's West Premiership & Championship kicked off today at Toryglen Regional Football Centre, with teams showcasing skill, determination, and a passion for the game.

After a thrilling first round of fixtures, Glasgow Life sit at the top of the table, two points ahead of last year's champions, Pollok United.

In the Championship, the newly introduced O60's team, Saint Anthony’s, made a remarkable debut, securing four wins from four matches to take the top spot in dominant fashion.

A huge thank you goes out to all players, referees, and regional representatives for their support in making today’s event a success.

We will soon announce the 2024 winner of the Arthur Duncan Award for ‘Outstanding contribution to Walking Football in Scotland’, but today we were able to present the last winner, Colin Craig from Drumchapel Utd with his memento and thank him for his continued work in making a difference to those he comes in contact with through walking football.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the next round of fixtures on the 9th of May, as the competition continues to unfold with more exciting action to come.

Photographs - Phil Dawson

Gorebridge Visit Hampden Park!

We were delighted to accompany Gorebridge WF club from Midlothian, as they were the next club to recently enjoy a fantastic visit to Hampden Park and its museum, thanks to our partnership between Football Memories Scotland, and the Hampden Park Museum.

The tour included behind-the-scenes access to the famous dressing rooms, tunnel, and pitch-side areas, offering an unforgettable experience for all involved as well as an opportunity for a kick-a-bout in the warm up area.

The players from the Gorebridge club thoroughly enjoyed their visit with a chance to reminisce about previous visits to watch games and concerts.

We thank our friends from Hampden Park Museum and Football Memories Scotland for their kindness once again.

Parkinson's Partnership - Stirling Albion Foundation

We are delighted with the support of Parkinson’s UK to have teamed up with Stirling Albion Foundation as they took a significant step in supporting people living with Parkinson’s by launching a brand-new Parkinson’s WF session, which kicked off today at Forthbank.

This initiative aims to provide a welcoming and engaging environment where participants can stay active, build confidence, and enjoy the social benefits of sport. The first session saw a attendees taking part in tailored activities designed to support mobility, coordination, and overall well-being and is available on Tuesdays (11-12pm).

WFS Trustee, Matt Ramsay, expressed enthusiasm about the new programme saying: “We are delighted to partner in this initiative with Stirling Albion, helping individuals with Parkinson’s stay active and engaged in the Forth Valley area. This partnership highlights the Foundation’s commitment to inclusivity and community health. Sessions will continue regularly, providing a valuable resource for those affected by Parkinson’s and we encourage more people to get involved.”

For more information on how to get involved, you can sign up here - Foundation Adult Class Consent Form

WFS O50's West Premiership, Championship & Conference

The WFS Over 50's West of Scotland League is set to host its second round of fixtures on Sunday 6th April at the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility. Teams across the Premiership, Championship, and Conference divisions will compete, building upon the momentum from the season's opening matches.​

In the Premiership, both Motherwell FC Community Trust, last year's league winners, and Pollok United, the reigning Champions League holders, commenced the season with three wins each, placing them jointly at the top of the table and will face each other in Game 3.

The Championship division saw Dumbarton aiming for a swift return to the Premiership, starting unbeaten and leading the league, closely followed by John Sutton CC and Glenafton Athletic and lots of interesting games to be played this round.

The introduction of the Conference division this season has brought several new teams into the fold, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for walking football in the region.​ We kick off with a top of the table clash with Motherwell FC CT - Amber against Motherwell Phoenix.

As the teams prepare for the upcoming fixtures, anticipation is high for another day of competitive and spirited matches.

WFS O50's East Premiership, Championship & Conference

​The WFS Over 50's East of Scotland League is set to host its second round of fixtures on Sunday 6th April, at the Regional Performance Centre (RPC) in Dundee. This event will feature matches across the Premiership, Championship, and Conference divisions.

The inaugural round, held on March 2, 2025, saw Forfar Walking Football Club, last year's Championship winners, make an impressive Premiership debut. They secured three wins and a draw, positioning them at the top of the table, two points ahead of Oriam and St James but play both teams this round as well as last year’s Premiership champions, Dundee East CSC.

In the Championship, Hibernian are 2 points clear although have played a game more and play second place and promotion challengers, Linlithgow Rose CFC.

The newly introduced Conference division has welcomed several new teams, including Fairfield MH, Fife Wanderers, Forfar North, Fort William, and Letham Angus. We open with top versus second as Fife Wanderers take on Saints in the Community.

As the teams prepare for the upcoming fixtures, anticipation is high for another day of competitive and spirited matches and we wish all players and teams all the very best.