Eric Riley Joins WFS Board

Walking Football Scotland is pleased to confirm the appointment of Eric J. Riley to its Board of Trustees.

Eric is a highly respected figure within Scottish football, having served as a Director of Celtic FC from August 1994. A graduate of Glasgow University and a qualified chartered accountant, he held the role of Financial Director, with overall responsibility for the Company’s corporate strategy, finance, and day-to-day operational areas.

In addition to his long-standing role at Celtic, Eric has made significant contributions to Scottish football as a whole. He twice served as a Director of the Scottish Premier League, amassing over 20 years of service, and spent four years as a Director of the Scottish Football Association. He has also been a Trustee of the Celtic FC Foundation for over 25 years and has chaired the Glasgow FA for almost 20 years.

Beyond his professional career, Eric is an avid sportsman and dedicated supporter of walking football, actively participating in weekly sessions in Glasgow.

Speaking on his appointment to the WFS Board, Eric said:

"Having seen firsthand through my time as a trustee of the Celtic FC Foundation how football can change lives, I’m passionate about the difference walking football can make. It’s not just about staying active; it’s about creating friendships, building confidence, and bringing communities together.

I’m proud to join Walking Football Scotland and bring my experience from many years in football governance and leadership to help the organisation grow and create even more opportunities for people across Scotland.”

Walking Football Scotland is delighted to welcome Eric Riley to the Board of Trustees. His extensive experience, combined with his personal enthusiasm for walking football, will be invaluable as the organisation continues to grow and strengthen its impact across Scotland.

WFS O60's East Premiership & Championship

It was another dramatic day of fixtures in the WFS O60’s East of Scotland Premiership and Championship at the Oriam National Performance Centre, with plenty of twists at the top of the tables.

In the Premiership, it’s all change at the summit as Dunfermline Dynamos have surged into the lead. With just four games left to play and only six points separating the top six clubs, the title race is shaping up to be one of the tightest in recent memory. Every match now carries huge significance as teams battle for position in an almighty scrap at the top.

Meanwhile, in the Championship, North Lanarkshire Council have extended their advantage and now sit seven points clear at the top. With their grip on first place strengthening, the real battle appears to be for second spot, where just three points separate Alloa Athletic – Black and Hibernian CF. That race promises to go right down to the wire.

A big thank you goes to all players, referees, and regional representatives for their support and contribution today. We look forward to more exciting action as the season reaches its decisive stages.

WFS O70's West Premiership

The latest round of fixtures at Toryglen Regional Football Centre has left the WFS West O70’s Premiership with a clear leader as we head towards the final stage of the season.

Duncanrig EK continue their impressive unbeaten run and now sit eight points clear at the top of the table. Their draw with Ayr United today means they march on firmly in control, setting up a highly anticipated clash with second-placed Townhead Strollers on the final league day in November.

The Strollers kept their hopes alive with a strong victory against The Honest Men in their latest match, but the gap at the summit remains significant as Duncanrig tighten their grip on the title.

We now look ahead to the final league day on 7th November, where the season will reach its conclusion.

A big thank you goes to all players, clubs, and referees for their efforts and contributions today – we look forward to welcoming everyone back for the finale.

Campbell Ogilvie Joins WFS Board

Walking Football Scotland is pleased to announce the appointment of Campbell Ogilvie to its Board of Trustees, the second of a series of new appointments this week.

Campbell is one of the most experienced and respected administrators in Scottish football, with a career spanning more than four decades. He began in 1970 as Assistant Secretary of the Scottish Football League before joining Rangers FC in 1978 as General Secretary, later becoming a Director in 1989. During this period, he played a pivotal role as one of the key architects in the formation of a new league structure aligned with UEFA’s Champions League.

In 2005, Campbell joined Heart of Midlothian FC as Operations Director, and in 2008 was appointed Managing Director. Alongside his club leadership roles, he held senior positions within the Scottish Football Association (SFA), serving as Treasurer and Vice-President before being appointed President of the SFA in 2011. He held this prestigious position until 2015, when he retired from professional football administration.

Following his retirement, he has remained closely connected to the game through his active participation in walking football, playing twice weekly with Drumchapel United. His appointment to the Walking Football Scotland Board in 2025 reflects his ongoing commitment to football and his recognition of the physical, mental, and social benefits that walking football provides.

On his appointment, Campbell said: “I am delighted to accept the position on the Board of Trustees. I have been fortunate to have been playing Walking Football  for 8 years and am really enjoying the experience and have seen the benefits enjoyed by so many. On a personal level I never envisaged playing football in my mid 70’s.

I have been very impressed with the commitment put in by so many people both on and off the pitch to make it the success it has become. The benefits are there for all to see from enjoying playing football , fitness, wider health benefits and friendships (and of course the banter).

Walking football is one of the fastest growing areas of the game and I am confident this growth will continue in the future for both men and women at competitive and non competitive levels with age being no barrier. It is encouraging to see the prospect of an over 75’s league starting and that highlights how far Walking Football has progressed.”

Walking Football Scotland is honoured to welcome Campbell Ogilvie to the Board of Trustees. His unrivalled experience at the highest levels of football governance, coupled with his personal enthusiasm for the game, will be instrumental in supporting the organisation’s strategic development and growth.

WFS O70's West Premiership

The WFS West O70’s Premiership resumes this Friday at Toryglen Regional Football Centre, with the second half of the season promising plenty of excitement and potential twists in the title race.

Current league leaders Duncanrig EK hold a five-point lead at the top of the table and remain unbeaten so far this season. They will be determined to extend their impressive run, but tough tests lie ahead as they take on third-placed Ayr United and fourth-placed Drumchapel United this month.

Chasing them closely are Townhead Strollers, who sit in second place. They too face both Ayr United and Drumchapel United, meaning the league table could look very different by the end of Friday’s fixtures.

With all four sides in action against each other, the competition at the top is tighter than ever. Expect plenty of drama and quality football as teams fight to make their mark in this crucial stage of the season.

Best of luck to all teams and players competing this week!

WFS O60's East Premiership & Championship

The WFS O60’s East of Scotland Premiership and Championship return to action this Friday at the Oriam National Performance Centre, as teams prepare for a thrilling second half of the season.

In the Premiership, league leaders Oriam 2025 will be looking to build on their unbeaten start and strengthen their position at the top. They won’t have it easy, however, as tough opposition awaits, eager to end their impressive run. Dunfermline Dynamos will be poised to capitalise on any slip-ups from the leaders, but they face a major test in a highly anticipated second-versus-third showdown against last year’s league champions, Hearts. With every point crucial at this stage of the season, we can expect a fiercely competitive round of fixtures.

Over in the Championship, North Lanarkshire Council have set the pace so far, sitting five points clear and unbeaten at the halfway point. They will be looking to maintain their form and edge closer to clinching the league title as the chasing pack fights to close the gap.

With so much on the line, this week’s action promises high-quality football and plenty of drama. We wish all teams and players the very best of luck as they continue their push for success in the second half of the season.

David MacKinnon Joins WFS Board

Walking Football Scotland is pleased to announce the appointment of David “Davie” MacKinnon to its Board of Trustees, the first of a series of new appointments being confirmed this week.

Davie brings a wealth of experience from a distinguished professional career in both football and business. He began his playing career at the age of 16 with Arsenal FC, before returning to Scotland where he represented six clubs, including Dundee, Rangers, Kilmarnock, and Partick Thistle. Over the course of a 20-year career, he made more than 600 senior appearances, won several winners’ medals, and earned a Scottish League cap.

Following his retirement from professional football, Davie held a number of senior leadership positions within the game. These included Commercial Director at Clyde FC, General Manager at Kilmarnock FC, Chief Executive at both Dundee FC and Greenock Morton, and senior roles at Hamilton Academical FC, where he was Head of Player Recruitment as well as Director of Media and Communications.

Beyond football, he has successfully applied his expertise in business development, strategic planning, and commercial enterprise across a range of sectors. He has also served as Managing Director of start-ups in both the finance and media industries.

In addition to his professional achievements, he remains closely connected to the sport as an active participant in walking football within the West of Scotland. His appointment to the Walking Football Scotland Board reflects both his commitment to the game and his extensive leadership experience, which will support the organisation’s continued growth and development.

Speaking on his new appointment, David said: “I am honoured and very proud to have been asked to become a Trustee of Walking Football Scotland.

I had a serious accident a couple of years ago, and when physically recovered, I decided to focus on regaining my physical, spiritual, and mental health through exercise.

As well as embarking on a weight training regime with a former Scottish strongman, I was introduced to Walking Football. Immediately on attending my first session I was embraced by the wonderful spirit and camaraderie of my fellow walking footballers.

Having enjoyed a 20 year professional career in football, the trigger points of each Walking Football session, brought the enjoyment,  physicality, mental well-being, team bonding, and a relevant degree of competitive spirit, that I enjoyed during my professional career. Whilst it's played at a more sedate pace, Walking Football is a wonderful vehicle for players of any standard, in re-living the joy football brought us all when it was all ahead of us.

 In joining Walking Football Scotland as a Trustee, I bring with me many years experience in football, business, and teamwork. My objectives will be to add value through those experiences, and support Walking Football to be all it can be whilst retaining it's therapeutic values of fitness, spiritual support, and mental well-being." 

Walking Football Scotland welcomes David MacKinnon to the Board and looks forward to his valuable contribution in the years ahead.

WFS O40's & O50's Women's Leagues

The latest round of fixtures in the WFS Women’s O40’s Premiership and Championship and Women’s O50’s Premiership delivered another exciting day of walking football at the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility, with title races beginning to take shape ahead of the season’s conclusion.

O40’s Women’s Premiership – Reds Extend Their Lead
It was another flawless performance from the Braehead FC - Reds, who maintained their 100% record with three wins from three on Sunday. The dominant display sees them move seven points clear at the top with only three games left to play, putting them in a commanding position to claim the Premiership crown.

O40’s Women’s Championship – Advantage Tay City Strollers
In the Championship, Tay City Strollers, who now hold a five-point lead over their closest challengers and with just three matches remaining, November’s final round is set up perfectly for a thrilling conclusion and a possible first trophy for the newly established club.

O50’s Women’s Premiership – Reds Closing in on the Title
Braehead FC - Reds continued their dominance in the O50’s division as well, extending their lead to nine points at the summit. With one round of fixtures remaining, they have one hand firmly on the trophy heading into the season finale.

The event at Ravenscraig once again showcased the growth and quality of women’s walking football across Scotland. We extend our thanks to all players, regional representatives, and referees for helping deliver a smooth and enjoyable day of competition.

WFS O70's East Premiership

Walking football returned today to the Oriam National Performance Centre as the WFS Men’s O70’s East Premiership got back underway, with the season now entering its decisive final stretch.

Alloa Athletic have been in unstoppable form all season, maintaining a flawless winning record and not dropping a single point. With just four matches remaining, they now sit only one point away from being crowned champions, thanks to their emphatic goal difference that has set them apart from the chasing pack.

A big thank you to all players, clubs, regional representatives, and referees for contributing to another fantastic day of walking football in the East of the country.

WFS O60's West Premiership & Championship

Walking football returned today to the Toryglen Regional Football Centre as the WFS Men’s O60’s West of Scotland Premiership and Championship kicked back off, with excitement building in both divisions heading into the business end of the season.

Premiership – Title Race Wide Open

The Premiership title race is now wide open after Glasgow Life dropped points today, allowing Pollok Utd to capitalise and close the gap. Pollok now sit just two points behind the leaders, setting up a thrilling run-in to decide this season’s champions with both still to play one another.

Championship – Saint Anthony’s on the Brink

After a shaky start that saw them drop points in both of their opening matches, Saint Anthony’s have surged back in style and now stand only one point away from being crowned champions. Their turnaround has set the stage for a celebratory finish to a strong campaign.

A big thanks goes to all players, clubs, regional representatives, and referees for helping deliver another great day of walking football in the west of the country.

Club News - September

Club News Round-Up

Scottish grassroots and walking football communities have been as busy as ever, with tournaments, summer gatherings, and well-deserved recognition for volunteers. Here’s the latest from across the regions:

Dundee East CSC Enjoy Summer Day Out

Dundee East CSC enjoyed their recent annual summer get-together, joining Street Soccer for a fantastic day out at the bowls. The event offered members a great chance to socialise, enjoy the sunshine, and strengthen the community bonds that make the club so special.

Linlithgow Rose Triumph at Gala Fairydean Tournament

The much-anticipated Gala Fairydean Rovers annual walking football tournament took place at Netherdale on 28th August, with Linlithgow Rose CFC emerging victorious and lifting the Hugh Nicolson Memorial Trophy.

The trophy honours the memory of Hugh Nicolson, a beloved Gala Fairydean walking footballer who passed away in 2023. Hugh’s family attended to enjoy the games that he loved so much.

The competition featured a strong lineup, including:

• Three Gala Fairydean teams

• Two teams from Dunfermline Dynamos

• Two teams from Tweedvale

• Musselburgh Windsor

• Oriam

• Stenhousemuir

• A team from Salford, England, who travelled specially for the tournament

Graeme McIver, Chair of the Gala Fairydean Rovers Community Trust, presented trophies to winners and runners-up, thanking players for a competitive yet friendly tournament, while also paying tribute to referees, sponsors A and A Doyle, and all the volunteers who helped make the event a success.

Friendly Walking Football in Stranraer

Down in Stranraer, seven teams came together for a fun and friendly walking football event. Clubs represented included Annan, Queen of the South, and two teams from Larne CALA and Avoniel Shankill who travelled from Belfast.

With no trophies or medals on the line, the day was all about friendship, fitness, and community spirit. Congratulations to Gary Small for his outstanding organisation of another brilliant event.

Stenhousemuir’s Jim Clark Honoured for Volunteer Work

A huge round of applause goes to Jim Clark of Stenhousemuir, who has been named the Scottish FA Central Region McDonald's Grassroots Volunteer of the Year in Adult Football.

Jim’s leadership and passion have been instrumental in creating sessions that focus on camaraderie, friendship, and inclusivity. His dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and this recognition is richly deserved.

Jeanfield Swifts Look Sharp with New Sponsor

Excitement is building at Jeanfield Swifts as the club unveiled their brand-new strips, proudly sponsored by Cyberhawk.

The team will be looking sharp when they take to the pitch for their league games this Sunday at Ravenscraig, showcasing their fresh new look as they aim for a strong start to the season.

Carnoustie Panmure Celebrate 10 Years of Friendship

A massive congratulations to Carnoustie Panmure, who are proudly celebrating their 10th anniversary.

What began as a room full of strangers has grown into a vibrant community built on friendships, camaraderie, and shared love for the game. Special mention goes to Mags Muir for her leadership and dedication over the years – and we’re sure there will be cakes aplenty to mark this milestone in style!

Oriam: 10 Years and Going Beyond Football

Oriam are also celebrating their 10th anniversary – and their success is about far more than just walking football. Their Oriam Walking Football Golf Section recently enjoyed their monthly outing at Kingsknowe Golf Course in Edinburgh.

This is a fantastic example of how walking football creates opportunities for friendship, camaraderie, and wider activities that positively impact lives well beyond the pitch.

Well done lads! ⛳🏌️

KA Leisure Win South West PARA Football Award

Another big congratulations goes to KA Leisure, winners of the Scottish FA South West Region ‘Best PARA Football Project Award’ for their outstanding Parkinson’s Walking Football Programme.

This inspiring initiative has created a welcoming, supportive environment for participants, proving the power of football to change lives. Craig Hamilton and Tony Harkin proudly accepted the award on behalf of the programme.

Amazing work – well done to all involved! 👏⚽

WFS Women's O40's & O50's Premiership & Championship

Walking football action returns this Sunday as the WFS Women’s O40’s Premiership and Championship, along with the Women’s O50’s Premiership, recommence at the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility. With tight title races and unbeaten runs on the line, fans can expect a thrilling day of competition.

O40’s Premiership – Braehead Reds Set the Pace
The Braehead Reds have been in scintillating form, opening their campaign with a 100% record and building a five-point lead at the top of the table. They’ll be looking to maintain that momentum this weekend as they aim to edge closer to the Premiership title.

O40’s Championship – A Top-of-the-Table Showdown
The Championship could not be tighter, with Braehead Blacks and Tay City Strollers locked on the same points, separated only by goal difference. Fittingly, the two sides face each other this Sunday in what promises to be a thrilling encounter that could go a long way to deciding the league champion.

O50’s Women’s Premiership – Reds on Top, But Challengers Lurk
The Braehead Reds are also leading the charge in the O50’s Premiership, sitting six points clear of Giffnock and seven ahead of Linlithgow Rose. However, with a full round of fixtures ahead, there’s still time for twists and turns before the end of the season.

A Day to Celebrate Women’s Walking Football
With three fiercely competitive leagues back in action, Sunday promises high-quality football, exciting matches, and plenty of talking points. No matter how the tables look by Sunday night, all teams and players deserve credit for their skill, teamwork, and passion for the game.

We wish all teams and players the very best of luck as the Women’s O40’s and O50’s leagues continue.

CHSS FUNDRAISING MONTH 2025

We’re proud to once again be partnering with Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (CHSS) to raise vital funds and awareness throughout the month of October.

Thanks to your incredible efforts last year, Walking Football Scotland clubs raised £7,344 to support the 1 in 5 Scots living with chest, heart, and stroke conditions. We’re so grateful for your commitment and generosity!

🏆 October Fundraising Challenge

This October, we’d love to see every club get involved to help improve the health and wellbeing of people across Scotland. Here are some simple and fun fundraising ideas:

• Host a walking football tournament and invite local teams or work colleagues.

• Run a coffee morning or a ‘beat the goalie’ challenge.

• Sell football cards or squares to raise quick funds.

• Organise your own Race night event or community game day!

• Ask your employer if they offer match funding to boost your total.

For even more inspiration, check out: Do Your Own Thing – CHSS

🛠️ How Can CHSS Help

CHSS are here to support your fundraising efforts! CHSS can provide fundraising packs, sponsorship forms, t-shirts, and merchandise to help make your events a success. Just email: fundraising@chss.org.uk to share your plans.

We’ve also created a Walking Football Scotland JustGiving page so all donations can be collected in one place: Here

Together, we can make a huge impact and ensure no life is half-lived in Scotland. Thank you for your continued support—we can’t wait to see what you achieve this October!

Player of the Month (August) - Linsey Bunton & Steve Ross

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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 August the Walking Football Scotland Women’s Player of the Month is Linsey Bunten! Linsey, 42, plays with Whitletts Victoria.

Walking Football Scotland Men’s Player of the Month is Steve Ross! Steve, 67, plays with Dundee East CSC.

Congratulations Linsey and Steve! They shared their reflections on what walking football means to them.

Why did you get involved in walking football?

Linsey: “I got involved through a friend during a really difficult period in my life—my mum had just been diagnosed with brain cancer. Walking Football gave me something positive to focus on.”

Steve: “While reading an advert in a Dundee Untied match day programme the thought of playing football in any way was interesting, given that until that point I had only ever been a spectator. So I went along to a session locally and watched and at that that first visit and I was sold.  It was a challenge for me as I never really played football in a team just as an occasional casual kick about and here I am 6 years on and loving the game”

I have always played at a competitive level and walking football allows you to take the game as serious or as leisurely as you like.”

What positive impact has walking football had on your life?

Linsey: “Walking football has had a big impact on my mental wellbeing—it helped me through a really tough time. It’s not just about the sport; it’s about having fun, staying active, and being part of something. There’s a real sense of belonging when you’re in a team—it feels like a family.”

Steve: “The obvious health benefits are the first thing that comes to mind. Playing Walking football is a fantastic way to keep the body mobile and the heart pumping and in a way that also creates a great social scene that can be enjoyed by a wide variety of people from all walks of life and with varying degrees of skill. Being as healthy as I can Physically and Mentally helps maintain a happy life overall.”

What would you say to encourage others to come along?

Linsey: “It’s 100% worth it—for the laughs, the friendships, and just getting out there. You meet great people, have fun, and it’s a brilliant way to stay active or get back into sport, no matter your age or ability.”

Steve: “I would say give it a go…. Leave any preconceptions on the side-lines and enjoy the experience of joining many others play a game that we love in a way that requires some slightly different skills to the big game. Come and enjoy the interaction with team mates and new friends”

WFS O60's West Premiership & Championship

Walking football returns to the Toryglen Regional Football Centre as the WFS Men’s O60’s West of Scotland Premiership and Championship get back underway, with both divisions finely balanced heading into the business end of the season.

Premiership – Glasgow Life in Control, but Title Race Still Open
Glasgow Life currently lead the way in the Premiership, sitting seven points clear of last year’s champions Pollok United. It’s been an impressive campaign so far for the league leaders, but with plenty of fixtures still to play, the title race is far from over. Pollok Utd have the experience of chasing silverware and will be eager to close the gap, ensuring there’s no room for complacency at the top.

Championship – Saint Anthony’s Set the Standard
In the Championship, Saint Anthony’s have been unstoppable so far, boasting a perfect record of eight wins from eight matches. Their dominance has given them a commanding seven-point cushion at the summit. This Friday, they’ll face their toughest test yet as they take on second-placed Drumchapel United in a clash that could either tighten or all but settle the race for promotion.

Plenty Still to Play For
With pride, points, and titles on the line, both divisions promise drama and high-quality competition at Toryglen. Glasgow Life and Saint Anthony’s may be leading the way, but with challengers chasing hard, the story of the season is still waiting to be written.