David Winnie Appointed President of Walking Football Scotland

David Winnie Appointed New President of Walking Football Scotland

Walking Football Scotland is delighted to announce the appointment of David Winnie as our new President.

David brings an outstanding combination of football experience, legal expertise, and leadership to the role,  qualities that will help drive the continued growth of walking football across Scotland.

A Career Built Across Football and Law

Before embarking on a successful career in law, David enjoyed a distinguished playing career in professional football, representing clubs including St Mirren, Aberdeen, Hearts and Dundee, as well as spells abroad in Iceland and Australia. He featured in major European competitions including the European Cup Winners’ Cup, UEFA Cup and Champions League, won the Scottish Cup, and represented Scotland at Under-21 level.

After hanging up his boots, David moved into management and coaching before qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales in 2009. He is now Head of Sports & Immigration at Gilson Gray LLP, advising clubs, players, agents, and governing bodies across the football pyramid, from the Premier League, Championship and League One, to international federations and elite sporting organisations.

David’s experience includes acting for clients in a wide range of arbitral and disciplinary proceedings, including at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, FA Rule K arbitration, and the disciplinary bodies of FIFA and UEFA.

He sits as a Judicial Panel member for both the Football Association and the Scottish Football Association, hearing high-profile disputes from across the men’s and women’s game, and is also a Legal Member of Sport Resolutions, the world’s leading sport-specific arbitration body handling cases spanning the Olympic Games, FIFA World Cup, and many other international competitions.

Beyond sport, David also advises on business immigration and international sports visa matters, providing guidance to clubs and athletes on global mobility, sponsorship, and eligibility requirements.

Excited for the Journey Ahead

“It’s a real honour to take on the role of President of Walking Football Scotland at such an exciting time. Walking football has already changed countless lives across the country, but this is just the beginning.

“Together with our fantastic new Board, I’m determined to take the organisation to the next level, strengthening our partnerships, expanding our reach, and showcasing the incredible health and social impact this game delivers. Walking football has the power to bring people together, improve wellbeing, and keep the spirit of the game alive for life, and I can’t wait to help drive that forward.”

A Shared Vision

As President, David will act as a figurehead for Walking Football Scotland, helping to open doors and build relationships that take the organisation forward. Working closely with the Board, he will support our strategic direction, raise the profile of walking football, and strengthen partnerships across sport, health and community sectors, all while championing the game’s powerful health and wellbeing impact nationwide.

Welcome, David. We’re excited for what lies ahead!

WFS O50's East of Scotland Leagues - Forfar WF, Linlithgow Rose & Fort William Champions!

The WFS Over 50’s East of Scotland Leagues came to an exciting conclusion at the Regional Performance Centre in Dundee, with titles decided in dramatic fashion across all three divisions.

In the Premiership, Forfar were crowned champions, securing back-to-back titles after winning the Championship last season. They came close to repeating last year’s unbeaten campaign, but a single defeat to Oriam prevented a perfect record. That crucial win helped Oriam claim third place and a Champions League spot, while Arbroath – Maroon finished runners-up to take the other qualification place.

The Championship also provided plenty of excitement, with Linlithgow Rose CFC and Hibernian CF starting the day level on points at the top of the table. After a tense set of fixtures, it was Linlithgow Rose who emerged as champions, earning promotion back to the Premiership at the first time of asking. Hibernian CF joined them in promotion after a strong season of consistent performances.

In the Conference, it was the tightest finish of all, with all four teams still in contention for the title going into the final matches. In the end, it was our furthest-travelled team, Fort William, who triumphed to become Conference Champions, with Fife Wanderers finishing a close second.

We were honoured to welcome former Dundee Manager Jocky Scott, who kindly presented the trophies and medals to our winners — a fitting way to close a brilliant season.

Finally, a huge thank you to all players, clubs, referees, and regional representatives for their dedication, commitment, and support throughout the season. It’s been another fantastic year of walking football in the East of Scotland!

WFS O65’s East Premiership - Alloa Athletic Champions!

It was a fantastic end to the WFS East Premiership season today at Oriam National Performance Centre, where Alloa Athletic were crowned champions after a truly remarkable campaign.

Alloa have been outstanding throughout the season, going unbeaten on their way to lifting the title. They were pushed all the way by runners-up Heart of Midlothian, who also went unbeaten, but one extra draw meant it was Alloa who finished top to become deserving champions. Both sides will represent the East at the Champions League event, along with North Lanarkshire Council, who also enjoyed a strong season.

The champions were presented with their trophy by former Hearts captain and Scotland internationalist Christophe Berra, and we extend our sincere thanks to Christophe for his time and support at today’s event.

We would also like to thank all clubs, players, referees, and regional representatives for their fantastic commitment and contribution throughout the season. It’s been a brilliant year of football in the East — congratulations to Alloa Athletic and well done to everyone involved!

🌍 World Mental Health Day 💚

🌍 World Mental Health Day 💚
Today we celebrate the power of connection, movement, and community.

Walking Football isn’t just about the game — it’s about friendship, belonging, and wellbeing. Every pass, every laugh, every shared moment helps break isolation, boost confidence, and strengthen minds as well as bodies.

On this World Mental Health Day, let’s remember to look out for one another — reach out to someone at your club or session, have a chat, and check that they’re OK. A simple conversation can make all the difference. 💚

Sometimes the best way to support mental health starts with something simple — a walk, a chat, and a ball at your feet. ⚽💚

Scottish Women’s Football and Walking Football Scotland collaboration announced with new £5,000 fund

Scottish Women’s Football and Walking Football Scotland are delighted to announce a new collaboration to encourage more women to stay active and involved in football into later life, including a new £5,000 fund to help clubs establish new women’s Walking Football groups.

With many women’s teams already developing recreational and walking football initiatives, the new agreement will see SWF support and promote women’s Walking Football events. This collaboration is further strengthened by SWF Chair Vivienne MacLaren, who recently joined our Board of Trustees.

The announcement marks the commitment of both organisations to the theme of this year’s annual Women and Girls in Sport Week: ‘Celebrating being active’.

Commenting, SWF Chair and WFS trustee Vivienne Maclaren said: “Walking Football can be an amazing experience for women, empowering them to get active and meet new people, and I know there are women taking part in Walking Football Scotland festivals and competitions from Annan to Aberdeen. I spotted quite a few players who have retired from SWF teams involved when I attended the Cup finals in June, so I know it can get competitive too.

“Scottish Women’s Football are proud to mark Women and Girls in Sport Week by committing to support WFS’s endeavours going forward, and I am delighted to accept the position on the Board of Trustees.”

WFS Trustee Matt Ramsay said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Scottish Women’s Football to help grow and support the women’s game here in Scotland.

“Walking Football Scotland is fully committed to creating a clear pathway for women to stay in the game, ensuring they can keep playing at every stage of life. Just as importantly, this partnership is about raising participation levels across the country and encouraging more women to get involved, so they can reap the many physical, social and mental health benefits of walking football.

“To back this commitment, we have ringfenced £5,000 to launch a new funding opportunity, offering up to £500 to help new women’s groups get started, and that fund is now live! Walking Football Scotland is proud to play our part in helping the women’s game thrive and inspire future generations.”

For any club wishing to apply for funding to start their own new walking football group - you can apply here.

Images attached show Vivienne MacLaren and Matt Ramsay at Hampden to launch the initiative, joined by SWF CEO Aileen Campbell, Women’s Football legend and Walking Football Scotland Patron Rose Reilly, WFS Trustee Linsey Paton-Donaldson and Walking Footballers from Giffnock SC and Rangers FFIT.

WFS O50's West Leagues - Pollok Utd, Glenafton Athletic & WEBATA - Champions!

It was a thrilling conclusion to the season at Ravenscraig as the WFS Over 50’s West leagues wrapped up their final league day in dramatic fashion.

In the Premiership, Pollok Utd were crowned champions after a highly competitive day that saw every team at the top drop points. The title was ultimately decided in the final match, where Pollok scored a late equaliser against Saint Anthony’s – Whites, who finish as worthy runners-up. Braehead FC secured a strong third-place finish to round off an excellent campaign.

The Championship was equally tense, with Dumbarton FC and Glenafton Athletic starting the day level on points at the top. After a hard-fought set of fixtures, it was Glenafton Athletic who emerged victorious to claim the title on goal difference.

In the Conference, congratulations go to newcomers WEBATA, who impressed throughout the season and were deservedly crowned champions in their debut campaign.

A huge thank you goes to all players, clubs, regional representatives, and referees for contributing to an exciting and competitive day of football at Ravenscraig.

WFS O50's East Premiership, Championship & Conference

It’s all to play for on Sunday 12th October, as the WFS Over 50’s East Premiership, Championship and Conference reach their final league fixtures at the RPC, Dundee. With titles on the line across all three divisions, we can expect drama, passion, and some fantastic football.

In the Premiership, Forfar WF currently lead the way, but their run-in won’t be easy. They face 3rd, 4th and 5th placed sides, and with only six points separating them from the chasing pack, Arbroath in 2nd will be ready to capitalise on any slip-ups.

The Championship is on a knife-edge, with Linlithgow Rose CFC and Hibernian CF joint top on points. Linlithgow are well ahead on goal difference, but with the two sides facing each other on the final day, it’s set up perfectly for a winner-takes-all showdown or could Tayport - Reds sneak in and take advantage with a game in hand also.

In the Conference, the promotion race is just as tense. Only three points separate the top four clubs, with Fife Wanderers narrowly leading the way. Their clash against 2nd-placed Saints in the Community could prove decisive in determining who lifts the title.

We wish all teams the very best of luck for what promises to be an exciting and action-packed Trophy Day.

Club News - October

We’ve had a busy few weeks packed with football, friendship, and fundraising. From charity festivals and walking football days to Parkinson’s matches and over 60s tournaments, our clubs and community partners have shown once again that football is about so much more than the game itself. Here’s a look at some of the highlights.

Fundraising Month Kicks Off with Alloa Charity Festival

October is fundraising month for our charity partners Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS), and what a brilliant start we’ve had!

Today saw the annual Alloa Athletic Walking Football Charity Event, with 8 teams taking part: Alloa Gold, Alloa Black, Stenhousemuir, Falkirk Foundation, Fife Wanderers, North Lanarkshire Council, Linlithgow, and Hearts.

Alloa Gold lifted the Festival Trophy, while Fife claimed the Plate. But the biggest winner of the day was CHSS, with an incredible £1,041 raised.

A special mention goes to Ian Stag, who personally raised an amazing £350 through his quiz sheets and also to Richard Sinclair for all his organisation.

Huge thanks to all the teams, supporters, and volunteers who made the day such a success.

Parkinson’s Friendships

The Glasgow Life Parkinson’s team had the pleasure of welcoming the North West Warriors from Lancaster up to Glasgow for a series of friendly matches, similar to their recent visit to Edinburgh.

A Glasgow Life side and the Celtic FC Foundation team took on the Warriors, as they continue their build-up towards the People’s Ford Festival in November.

An afternoon filled with friendship, football and camaraderie – the perfect reminder of the power of the game to bring people together.

Annan Athletic - More Than Football

Annan Athletic’s latest Walking Football Game Day was once again a huge success enjoyed by all, and the fun carried on afterwards in the clubhouse with pizza and a quiz!

It was another brilliant reminder that Annan Athletic is about much more than football – it’s about community, friendship, and shared good times. Thanks to everyone who came organised and made it such a great day!

Craig Molloy Coaching Tournament – Over 60s Walking Football Festival

On Friday Craig Molloy Coaching were delighted to host their very first Over 60s Walking Football Festival at Battery Park.

More than 50 walking legends took part, representing Drumchapel, Glasgow Life, Largs, Morton, John Sutton, and of course, their own players including our new trustee Dave MacKinnon. After a great morning of football, everyone headed back to the Clyde Suite for some well-deserved lunch.

Well done to Glasgow Life, who came out on top by defeating a strong Morton team on penalties after a thrilling 1–1 draw in the final.

It was a brilliant day that brought together walking footballers from across the West of Scotland. Huge thanks to all the organisers, and to the Trustees at the Inverclyde Windfarm Community Fund for making the event possible.

A fantastic mix of fundraising, competition, and community spirit has made the last few weeks one to remember. From raising vital funds for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, to welcoming visiting teams, and celebrating walking football at every level, it’s clear the game continues to inspire and unite people of all ages.

Here’s to even more football, friendship, and togetherness in the weeks ahead

WFS O65's West Premiership - Pollok Utd Champions!

The curtain came down on the WFS O65’s West Premiership with a day of excitement and celebration at Toryglen Regional Football Centre and it was Pollok Utd who stole the show, being crowned champions in style.

Pollok were unstoppable across the campaign, winning all 11 of their matches, a perfect record that underlined their dominance. A victory in their opening match of the final day against Carrick WFC was enough to seal the league title, leaving Carrick with a nervous wait to see if they could hold on to their Champions League spot.

It was Ayr United who finished runners up in second place and with Giffnock Seniors drawing both of their fixtures, Carrick WFC held firm to claim that all-important third spot and join the West’s representatives in the end of season, Champions League event.

The day ended in fitting fashion with the trophy presentation, conducted by our WFS Patron Gordon Smith, to whom we are once again deeply indebted for his continued support.

A huge thank you goes to all players, clubs, and referees for making the final day – and the season as a whole – such a memorable one.

Photos - Phil Dawson

WFS O65's East Premiership

The stage is set for a thrilling finale in the WFS O65’s East Premiership as the league concludes next Friday, 10th October, at the Oriam National Performance Centre – marking our first league trophy day in the east of the country for 2025.

Alloa Athletic currently lead the way, sitting five points clear at the top with just two games remaining. They will be looking to hold their nerve and secure the title, but both North Lanarkshire Council and Hearts remain in the hunt, hoping for a late twist in the race.

The drama is heightened further as second and third place go head-to-head, meaning valuable points will be dropped somewhere in the chasing pack. That could leave Alloa with one hand on the trophy – but as we know in football, nothing is certain until the final whistle.

It promises to be a fantastic day of football and celebration as the East Premiership crowns its first champions of 2025 and we also look to see who finishes in the top 3 securing Champions League football.

We wish all teams the very best of luck for the final day!

Regional Manager Vacancies

We are currently seeking volunteers to fill a small number of Regional Manager vacancies.

The vacancies needing filled include:

• Men’s Over 50s – Central

• Men’s Over 50s – West

If you would like to learn more or express your interest in becoming a Regional Team Manager, please contact matt@walkingfootballscotland.org.

You can also download and complete the application form here: Regional Team Manager.

Closing date: Wednesday 8th October
Applications will be reviewed after this date, and appointments will be confirmed shortly thereafter.

Player of the Month (September) - Fiona Cavana & Raymond Heaney

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We’re keeping up with our monthly spotlight on Walking Football Scotland Players of the Month in partnership with Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.

For September the Walking Football Scotland Women’s Player of the Month is Fiona Cavana! Fiona, 43, plays with Linlithgow Rose CFC.

Walking Football Scotland Men’s Player of the Month is Raymond Heaney! Raymond, 63, plays with Giffnock SC - Auld Timers

Congratulations Fiona and Raymond! They shared their reflections on what walking football means to them.

Why did you get involved in walking football?

Fiona: “Some of my friends who I had previously played 11 a side with asked me to come along and give it a go. They were short of a goalkeeper so I agreed to help out. Couple of years later and I am now training and playing walking football regularly as an outfield player and captain of Linlithgow Rose.”

Raymond: “I was invited to attend the inaugural GSC walking football match to help make up the numbers and with it being football I went along and I have been playing the game ever since”

What positive impact has walking football had on your life?

Fiona: “The players at Linlithgow Rose have been very welcoming to me right from the start. They are a great bunch of Ladies and we have a great laugh together. I recently lost my mum and being able to walk onto the pitch and forget about what is going on in my life and just play football has really helped me through this difficult time.”

Raymond: “Walking football has provided a wonderful opportunity to remain fit and active and reconnect with some old friends and to meet new people, it also continues to help provide a fun opportunity to continue playing the game.”

What would you say to encourage others to come along?

Fiona: “I was sceptical of walking football at first it took a few attempts for me to be persuaded to come along as I was still regularly playing 5 a side and recreational football so thought it wouldn’t be competitive enough for me but I was very wrong. I love coming along and representing my club and my regional team on the pitch and I have also made some great friends doing it. I would encourage anyone thinking about it to come along and give it a try. You won’t regret it.”

Raymond: “If you are looking to improve your touch or just to start playing again and improve your fitness, or if you are looking to meet many like-minded people or just looking for something new to try this - it’s a great opportunity.”

WFS O50's West Premiership ,Championship & Conference

The curtain comes down on the WFS O50’s West of Scotland Premiership, Championship and Conference leagues this Sunday at Ravenscraig, and all three divisions promise high drama as titles, promotion places, and Champions League spots go on the line.

In the Premiership, the title race could not be tighter. Pollok Utd currently lead the way, but with only five points separating the top six teams, it’s all to play for. Every point – and every goal – could prove decisive in the battle not only for the title but also for those all-important three Champions League spots. Expect nerves, intensity, and plenty of twists as the top clubs fight it out.

The Championship is equally thrilling, with the race for promotion and the title finely balanced. Glenafton Athletic sit top, ahead of Dumbarton FC only on goal difference, with both sides locked on the same points. On paper, Glenafton appear to have the tougher test, facing both the third- and fourth-placed sides, but on the final day anything can happen – and every goal could swing the balance.

Meanwhile, in the Conference League, newcomers WEBATA look set to crown a superb debut season. Sitting seven points clear at the top, they could all but seal the trophy with just one more win. However, Motherwell Phoenix and Duncanrig EK will be out to spoil the party, hoping to delay the inevitable. Still, WEBATA have one hand firmly on the silverware already.

With so much at stake across all three leagues, Sunday promises to deliver a memorable finale to the season.

We wish all teams the very best for the final showdown!

Vivienne MacLaren Joins WFS Board

Walking Football Scotland is delighted to announce the appointment of Vivienne MacLaren to its Board of Trustees, completing a series of new appointments.

Vivienne is passionate about sport, in particular women’s and girls’ football and has a keen focus on expanding the opportunities available to women and girls to take part in or return to sport. She is an award-winning marketing and digital specialist with 29 years’ experience spent in Scotland and London both client and agency side. She is also former MD and founder of an award-winning digital marketing agency, ad tech advisory board member and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.  

In 2016, Vivienne was appointed Chairperson of Scottish Women’s Football, the independent body that manages the domestic game in Scotland, after joining the main Board in 2014 as media and communications director. Vivienne led the transformation of the domestic game as a brand, a commercial entity and as an environment in which girls and women can thrive in Scotland.  

She led the huge growth of the Scottish Women’s Premier League and signed the first broadcast deal for women’s football in Scotland in 2018, shortly after securing the first ever league sponsor. In 2023 the largest sponsorship deal in the Scottish women’s and girls’ game was secured with ScottishPower, covering both Scottish Women’s Football and the SWPL. This was also led by Vivienne and SWF.

She is a strategy-driven professional who is regarded as one of the leading marketers in the UK. She regularly speaks at events including MarTech, Women in Business, University of Strathclyde MBA programme as well as media interviews on behalf of Scottish Women’s Football (SKY, BBC News, STV and various podcasts and radio).  

Vivienne was VP of Global Marketing at high growth, global technology SaaS company, Ideagen for over 6 years and is now a portfolio marketing director with The Marketing Centre.

She was also President of Giffnock Tennis, Squash and Hockey Club, 2020 and 2021 (LTA and Tennis Scotland Club of the Year 2021) and was appointed Chairperson of mental health and wellbeing charity, YAMS in July 2024.  Vivienne has represented Scottish Women’s Football on Scottish FA Congress since 2017 and was a member of the Women and Girls in Sport Advisory Board for 3 years, providing independent advice to the Scottish Government.

In 2021 Vivienne was the recipient of the Chair’s Award at the Institute of Directors Scotland (IoD) Awards.

A long-standing supporter of Walking Football Scotland, Vivienne has championed the organisation’s work and, in 2025, formally joins the Board of Trustees. Her extensive expertise in marketing, communications, and strategic leadership, combined with her passion for inclusion and community engagement, will be invaluable in supporting the continued growth of walking football across Scotland.

On speaking about her new appointment Vivienne said:

“I am passionate about providing opportunities for girls and women to participate in football, and sport. Whether that be on the path to elite football or the start of being part of a team, competing with friends, or in league competitions.

Walking Football offers women the opportunity to play the sport they love in a different way, and reignite their passion for the game. I am looking forward to working with the other Trustees to support the growth of Walking Football Scotland”

Walking Football Scotland is proud to welcome Vivienne MacLaren to the Board and looks forward to the significant contribution she will make.

WFS O65's West Premiership

The curtain comes down on the WFS O65’s West Premiership next Friday 3rd October at Toryglen Regional Football Centre, and the stage is set for a dramatic finale.

Pollok Utd sit proudly at the top of the table, unbeaten and five points clear of their nearest challengers, Ayr United and Carrick WFC. With both of those teams still to play on the final day, Pollok face a huge test in defending their lead against the very sides chasing them.

While Carrick cannot mathematically win the league having played a game more than their rivals, they could still have a big say in the outcome. Could Pollok, after leading all season and remaining unbeaten, stumble at the final hurdle with back-to-back defeats against second and third place? If so, the door would be wide open for Ayr United to snatch the title in dramatic fashion if they manage to win their 2 games.

Whatever happens at the top, Pollok Utd have already secured their Champions League spot, but there’s still plenty to play for further down the table. With Giffnock North and Pollok Thistle breathing down the necks of the top three, the battle for final placings promises just as much excitement.

It all comes down to next Friday – an unmissable day of football to close out a thrilling season.