Player of the Month (May) - Annemarie McGuinness & Stuart Ainslie

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As May comes to an end, we’re proud to once again shine a spotlight on the people who make Walking Football Scotland’s Players of the Month so special—once again in partnership with Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.

🌟 May Women’s Player of the Month
Annemarie McGuinness (53) – Giffnock SC

🌟 May Men’s Player of the Month
Stuart Ainslie (61) – Oriam

Huge congratulations to Annemarie & Stuart!

Both shared their reflections on what walking football means to them, highlighting the friendships, health benefits and sense of belonging that keep our community moving forward 💙⚽

Why did you get involved in walking football?

Annemarie: “I started playing walking football in 2023, after covid lockdowns.

I saw it as a really good opportunity to continue playing football and get fit again.”

Stuart: “It’s a great, and fun way to stay fit and active. I enjoy playing regular football both in our social sessions and in the more competitive league fixtures. The injuries are fewer I’m all the healthier for it.

I’ve met and become friends with a great bunch of folks who all share a passion for playing football and enjoy the camaraderie and banter that goes along with it. A game of football followed by a coffee and chat with the Lads and Lassies is something I look forward to each week.”

What positive impact has walking football had on your life?

Annemarie: “Walking Football has given me a new zest for life, l have made a lot of new friends, the social aspect that comes with playing is really important. It has helped my self confidence no end.”

Stuart: “It’s a great, and fun way to stay fit and active. I enjoy playing regular football both in our social sessions and in the more competitive league fixtures. The injuries are fewer I’m all the healthier for it.

I’ve met and become friends with a great bunch of folks who all share a passion for playing football and enjoy the camaraderie and banter that goes along with it. A game of football followed by a coffee and chat with the Lads and Lassies is something I look forward to each week.”

What would you say to encourage others to come along?

Annemarie: “Come along and give it a go, it’s really good fun, and very quickly you find a whole new circle of friends. It’s a great way to keep/get fit. Doesn’t matter what level you’ve played at or if indeed you’ve never played. The modified rules, make it inclusive for call abilities.”

Stuart: “Walking football is for anyone and everyone that wants to stay active and still play the game.

All abilities are accommodated, and it will do your physical and mental health the world of good. Oriam WF, like most clubs, is more than just a football club. It’s a social hub. A place to play, stay active, meet new people, get you out the house. At Oriam we also run activity groups for Golf, Pool, Grub club and country walks, so there’s something for everyone.

It’s the truest of sayings – “Don’t knock it until you try it”. I totally recommend giving it a go!”

WFS O75'S Men's Premiership

Round 2 of the WFS O75’s Men’s Premiership took place today at Toryglen, with another fantastic day of football in this historic inaugural age category league.

At the halfway stage of the season, Fife Wanderers are leading the way and have now extended their advantage at the top of the table to five points. They are looking strong heading into the second half of the campaign, although there is still plenty to play for after the summer break.

This league continues to be a real celebration of walking football and the opportunities it creates for players to continue enjoying the game competitively at every age category.

A big thank you to all players and referees for contributing to another memorable day at Toryglen. ⚽

Walking Football Scotland Appoints Richard Sinclair as Coach Liaison Officer

Walking Football Scotland are delighted to announce the appointment of Richard Sinclair as our new Coach Liaison Officer.

Richard joins the organisation with a wealth of coaching experience and has spent the last number of years coaching at Alloa Athletic, where he has developed a strong reputation for his commitment to player development, coaching standards, and supporting people within the game.

Richard will play a key role in supporting clubs across Scotland through club visits, coaching support, and the delivery of development opportunities. He will also assist with Walking Football Scotland education workshops, promote the Laws of the Game, and work closely with coaches and volunteers to support positive and inclusive environments for participants.

Walking Football Scotland Trustee Matt Ramsay said:

“We are delighted to welcome Richard into this important new role within Walking Football Scotland. Richard brings a fantastic level of coaching experience, enthusiasm, and understanding of the game, and we believe he will be a tremendous support to clubs, coaches, and volunteers across the country. This appointment reflects our continued commitment to developing walking football opportunities and supporting the growth of the game throughout Scotland.”

This appointment reflects Walking Football Scotland’s ongoing commitment to supporting the grassroots game and ensuring clubs across Scotland have access to practical guidance, education, and development opportunities.

We are excited to welcome Richard into this new role and look forward to the positive impact he will bring to clubs and communities throughout Scotland.

Photos - Phil Dawson

Club News

Walking football continues to bring people together in so many different ways — through friendship, competition, unforgettable experiences and support for one another both on and off the pitch.

This latest round-up captures the true spirit of the game, from international success and special occasions to heartfelt tributes and preparations for the busy summer ahead.

Cockenzie & Port Seton Mourn the Loss of “Glesga Tam” ❤️⚽

Everyone at Cockenzie & Port Seton Walking Football was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of one of their much-loved members, Thomas Mackin, affectionately known to all as “Glesga Tam.”

Tam brought humour, warmth and plenty of character to every session, with his trademark nutmegs and cheeky smile always guaranteed to lift spirits on the pitch. Rain or shine, he was always there — not just as a player, but as a true friend to so many within the group.

His presence, personality and passion for the game made Monday mornings something everyone looked forward to, and he will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Walking Football Scotland sends its condolences and love to Thomas’s family, friends and everyone at Cockenzie & Port Seton Walking Football at this difficult time.

Rest in peace, Tam. ❤️

Braehead Women Celebrate More Success in Salou 🏆⚽

There was more international success for Braehead Women’s Walking Football Team as they proudly lifted the trophy during their recent trip to Salou.

The team produced another fantastic set of performances against strong opposition, continuing their impressive run and showcasing the quality within the women’s game.

Beyond the football itself, the trip was another brilliant opportunity for friendship, teamwork and representing Scottish walking football on the international stage.

A huge congratulations to everyone involved on a fantastic achievement 👏🏆

Hearts Walking Footballers Enjoy Special Day at Tynecastle ❤️⚽

The Hearts Over 50s Walking Football group recently enjoyed a memorable opportunity as they got the chance to play on the famous pitch at Tynecastle Park.

Rolling back the years in style, the group were in top form with plenty of goals, laughter and moments of quality on show.

More importantly, the session highlighted the fantastic spirit within the group and the strong connection they have with the club. It was a special experience for everyone involved and great to see the players welcomed onto the Tynecastle turf.

A top group and a brilliant occasion for all involved. 👏⚽

Regional Squads Preparing for Summer Cup Events ⚽🏆

Preparations are well underway for the upcoming Regional Cup events taking place across June and July, with regional squads already beginning to come together ahead of the summer competitions.

The West Region recently held a joint session involving the Men’s Over 65s and Over 70s squads, with both groups taking each other on in a friendly series of matches.

The games provided valuable preparation, competitive action and an opportunity for players to build relationships as squads continue to develop ahead of the big events later this year.

It’s fantastic to see the enthusiasm and commitment from players and management teams as excitement builds for another busy regional campaign. 👏⚽

These stories once again highlight the incredible community at the heart of walking football. Whether celebrating success, creating lasting memories or supporting one another during difficult times, the bonds formed through the game continue to make a real difference in people’s lives. A huge well done to all clubs, players and volunteers involved. ⚽❤️

SWF WFS O40's Women's Premiership & Championship

The SWF WFS O40’s Women’s Premiership & Championship returns on Sunday 31st May at the for another exciting round of competitive walking football.

Following Round 1, Braehead FC - Reds sit top of the Premiership table after a perfect start to the season. However, Round 2 presents a major challenge as they take on the teams currently sitting 2nd, 3rd and 4th in the standings.

In the Championship, Oriam Ladies enjoyed a terrific start to life in competitive walking football during Round 1 and will be looking to build on that momentum. They commence Round 2 with a top-of-the-table clash against Jeanfield Swifts in what promises to be a big opening fixture.

With several key matches ahead across both divisions, we could be looking at a very interesting league table once the final whistle blows that afternoon.

We wish all teams the very best for another fantastic day of football at Ravenscraig. ⚽👏

WFS O75's Men's National Premiership

The WFS National O75’s Premiership returns to the on Friday 29th May for Round 2, following a memorable opening round in this historic inaugural season.

After Round 1, Fife Wanderers sit top of the table, holding a two-point lead over Ayr Utd. Fittingly, Round 2 begins with the current top two facing off against each other in what promises to be an exciting opening fixture.

With all teams continuing to make history in this new age category, we look forward to another fantastic day of walking football and wish all players and clubs the very best for next Friday’s matches. ⚽👏

Para Football Cup

Walking Football Scotland were delighted on Saturday to take part in a special Para Football Festival at Oriam, showcasing the various para football disciplines in all their glory.

The day was a true celebration of the game and the mantra of “Football for All”, bringing together players, clubs and communities for a fantastic afternoon of football and inclusion.

A huge thank you goes to Regional League Coordinator David Callaghan for his organisation and support throughout the day, which featured two exciting four-team competitions across the men’s and women’s categories.

In the men’s event, Dundee East CSC emerged victorious after defeating Linlithgow Rose in the final. In the women’s competition, Midlothian Ladies lifted the trophy following their final win over Linlithgow Rose.

We would also like to thank all participating teams for their terrific contribution to the festival: Dundee East CSC, Fife Wanderers, Jeanfield Swifts, Linlithgow Rose CFC, Midlothian Ladies, and Stenhousemuir. Everyone involved showcased walking football in such a positive light and helped make the day such a success.

Finally, a huge well done and thank you to the Para Football CEO Ashley Reid, for her vision and support to WFS, and congratulations on delivering what was a truly fantastic day for inclusive football in Scotland.

WFS O65's Men's East of Scotland Leagues

The WFS O65’s Men’s East of Scotland Leagues returned to the Oriam National Performance Centre today for Round 2, with another excellent day of competitive walking football.

In the Premiership, it’s advantage Alloa Athletic – Gold, who defeated Fife Wanderers in the top-of-the-table clash. However, Oriam 2025 have quietly moved into second place after recording three wins today, meaning only four points separate the top three teams.

In the Championship, Hearts 98’s continue to lead the way following another strong set of performances, although it remains a very tight and competitive division with plenty still to play for and still only 2 points ahead of Dundee East CSC.

A big thank you goes to WFS Regional League Co-ordinator David Callaghan, along with all our referees, regional representatives, players and clubs for contributing to another fantastic day of football in the East of Scotland. ⚽👏

WFS O70's Men's West Premiership

The WFS O70’s Men’s West Premiership recommenced today at the Toryglen Regional Football Centre for Round 2, with another strong and competitive day of walking football.

Before today’s matches, Duncanrig EK and Giffnock SC Auld Timers sat joint top with only goal difference separating the two sides. However, after today’s fixtures, it is Duncanrig EK who have stolen a march at the top of the table, opening up a two-point lead in the Premiership standings but to second place Carrick WFC. Only 5 points now separate the top 4 clubs.

With plenty of football still to be played, the title race remains wide open heading into the next round of fixtures.

A big thank you to all players, clubs, referees, regional representatives, and Regional League Co-ordinator Derek King for another excellent day of football at Toryglen. ⚽👏

Scottish Prostate Cancer Initiative - Free Testing

FREE PROSTATE CANCER TESTING

Walking Football Scotland is supporting The Scottish Prostate Cancer Initiative, a project offering free PSA tests to 25,000 men in Scotland aged 40–80. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in Scotland, and the Initiative aims to improve the detection and treatment pathway. Since launching in March 2026, more than 10,000 men have already been tested.

We are pleased to offer players access to testing during the Walking Football Scotland Scottish Cup & Festival on Saturday 6 June 2026 at Glasgow Green Football Centre, 28 Kings Drive, Glasgow, G40 1HB.

Testing is by appointment only. A simple blood sample will be taken by the medical team (no physical examination required), and appointments last around 15 minutes. Please drink plenty of water before your appointment (at least 2 litres the day before and on the day) and avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours beforehand. We are therefore suggesting that, should you wish to book a test, you book a time before playing your first game. The testing event will be opened to the public for appointments later in the day; therefore, please book your appointment by Tuesday 26 May.

Results will be sent directly and confidentially to you by email within a few days. The company will not have access to your results or personal medical information.

To register and book:

· Scan the QR code below, or visit: https://admin.mypsatests.org.uk/Events/?5635d8c4-68d8-4a89-b172-a3166ad48898

· Register with your email address and password

· Select the Walking Football Scotland event on Saturday 6 June 2026

· Enter the event password: WFS26

If you need help registering, call 0800 6523 233.

Some participants may be invited to provide additional samples for research to support the development of more accurate and efficient early diagnosis methods for prostate cancer.

QR Code for Walking Football Scotland testing – 6 June 2026

The Initiative is being supported by Scottish businesses in conjunction with the prostate cancer charity, the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust, and leading UK digital diagnostic company, EDX Medical.

WFS Scottish Cup Draw 2026

The WFS Scottish Cup 2026 Draw took place today in the capital, hosted by our valued sponsors and charity partners Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.

With a record 96 teams taking part across the competition, this year’s tournament is set to be our biggest Scottish Cup yet, highlighting the continued growth of walking football across Scotland.

Please see below for the full draw and group allocations for each section of the competition as we meet on Saturday 6th June at Glasgow Green Football Centre.

We wish all teams the very best for what promises to be an incredible day of football, and we extend a huge thank you to Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland for their continued support and now entering their fourth year of sponsorship with WFS. ⚽

WFS O70's Men's West Premiership

The WFS O70’s Men’s West Premiership returns this Friday at the Toryglen Regional Football Centre for another exciting round of fixtures.

At the top of the table, it couldn’t be any closer, with only goal difference separating Duncanrig EK and Giffnock SC Auld Timers after the opening round of matches.

With both sides looking to gain an early advantage in the title race, it will be fascinating to see what the table looks like by 2pm on Friday afternoon.

We wish all teams the very best for the upcoming fixtures and look forward to another great day of walking football at Toryglen. ⚽

WFS O65's Men's East of Scotland Leagues

The WFS O65’s Men’s East of Scotland Leagues return this Friday at the Oriam National Performance Centre for another exciting round of competitive walking football.

In the Premiership, we kick things off with a standout top-of-the-table clash as Fife Wanderers, who recorded a perfect start in Round 1, take on last year’s champions Alloa Athletic – Gold. With both sides expected to challenge strongly again this season, it promises to be a terrific opening fixture.

In the Championship, Hearts 98’s made a strong start to the campaign and will be aiming to build on that momentum. Their day begins against Dunbar, before further fixtures against Gala Fairydean Rovers and Dunfermline Dynamos.

We wish all teams the very best for Round 2 and look forward to another fantastic day of football at Oriam. ⚽

WFS Scottish Cup & Festival

Record-Breaking Entry Numbers Confirmed Ahead of WFS Scottish Cup & Festival 2026 Draw

The countdown is officially underway for the WFS Scottish Cup & Festival 2026, proudly sponsored once again by Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, with this year’s event set to become the biggest one-day walking football event in the world.

Taking place at Glasgow Green Football Centre on Saturday 6th June 2026, the tournament has reached full capacity with a record-breaking 96 teams and just under 1,000 players expected to take part across the day.

The official tournament draw will be conducted by representatives from our sponsors, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, on Monday 11th May, with all clubs receiving tournament information, schedules and key event details by Tuesday.

Excitement is already building ahead of the draw, with strong entry numbers across all competitive age categories:

• Men’s Over 50s

• Men’s Over 60s

• Men’s Over 65s

• Men’s Over 70s

• Women’s Over 40s

Please note there will be no draw required for the following categories due to format and entry numbers:

• Men’s Over 75s

• Women’s Over 50s

• Parkinson’s

• Non-Competitive Festival

The continued growth of the WFS Scottish Cup & Festival highlights the incredible rise of walking football across Scotland and beyond, with teams travelling from across the country to be part of another historic event at Glasgow Green.

Further updates, fixtures and tournament information will be released following Monday’s draw.

Scotland UEFA Squad Announcement - June 2026

Walking Football Scotland (WFS) is proud to officially announce its first ever Scotland National Walking Football squad.

This historic moment for the game has been made possible with the support of the Scottish Football Association and Scottish Para-Football, marking a significant step forward in the development of Walking Football at an international level.

We extend our sincere thanks to our Regional Managers and League Coordinators for their efforts in nominating players from across the country. The strength and depth of nominations made selection an incredibly difficult process, and we are grateful for the commitment shown across all regions.

We are delighted to congratulate the players selected, who will now go on to represent Scotland at the Walking Football Euro Cup, organised by UEFA, taking place on 25th June in Nyon, Switzerland.

This represents a major milestone not only for Walking Football Scotland, but for the continued growth of international Walking Football. We look forward to working closely alongside our national associations and partners across Europe as the game continues to develop at this level.

We encourage everyone across the Walking Football community to join us in congratulating the players selected, who will have the true honour of representing Scotland on the international stage this June.