Announcement from WFS Board of Trustees

There are stories circulating about an International Scottish team, being entered into a competition run by the IWFF Euro’s this summer.

Walking Football Scotland has not been approached for any confirmation on this story and for clarity the Board of Trustees feel we must issue the following statement.

The team manager has been reported as saying his invitation to manage Scotland's national walking football team came during a call from an official at Walking Football Scotland.

No one from Walking Football Scotland has made any approach and there are no plans to select or manage a national walking football team.

It has already been agreed with our governing body, the Scottish FA, that Walking Football Scotland will be responsible for organising and selecting our country’s representative teams, when appropriate.

WFS are not involved in the IWFF Euros and would like to reiterate our reasons for not engaging with the International Walking Football Federation (IWFF).

As you all know, Walking Football Scotland (WFS) is a charity registered in Scotland (SC047709) and the lead body for walking football in Scotland.

There are a number of walking football associations and federations out with Scotland, with no connection to any of the official football associations across Europe. WFS are NOT affiliated to ANY of these groups and do not recognise these groups, recognising instead the governing bodies across Europe and working closely with the Scottish FA.

We all know walking football is at an early stage in its development and we must build on recognised foundations.

Since our last communication with the IWFF, many of our own groups have been approached and I hope they do not put self before country.

It has been said WFS do not want to enter their competitions. It is not as simple as that: clubs can and do take part in competitions and gatherings out with Scotland and this has become part of the enjoyment of walking football. 

However, we must act in the best interest for everyone, where club and group participation in tournaments abroad is encouraged; a national team must truly be representative of the country.

These competitions are a small aspect of walking football in Scotland and I believe we have to prioritise our resources and be able to support and deliver more for the majority of participants across the country. WFS strive to put emphasis on improving fitness, physical and mental health benefits, reducing social isolation and campaigning to develop a National Preventative Strategy/Prescriptive policy.  

I hope you continue to support us as we make walking football safe and open to all, appreciating its many positive connections and enjoy participating in sport and activity once again.

Many thanks,

Gary McLaughlin

Chair, Walking Football Scotland