FA Walking Football Game Plan
23 January 2025
by
Trevor Ridley

FA Launches Gameplan to Expand Walking Football Across the UK
Following a recent consultation meeting at St George’s Park the Football Association (FA) has unveiled a strategic Gameplan aimed at growing Walking Football across the UK. The plan focuses on six key pillars designed to foster inclusivity, create sustainable opportunities, and raise awareness of the sport.
1. Connected Networks
The introduction of Team Walk, an online collaboration tool, will support leagues and clubs by providing accreditation and fostering community connections.
2. Team-Based Playing Opportunities
The FA Walking Football Cup will continue, alongside the creation of Accredited Walking Football Leagues, ensuring the sport remains sustainable and engaging.
3. Sessional Playing Opportunities
The Just Play initiative will expand to offer more flexible, session-based opportunities, with rewards for those running these sessions.
4. Enhanced Awareness
The FA will launch an annual communication plan, including Walking Football Week, and provide resources for County FAs, clubs, and leagues to increase participation.
5. Developing a Valued Workforce
A new Referee Course for Walking Football will be introduced, and volunteer prizes will help recognize those supporting the sport.
6. Creating Partnerships
The FA will build on its partnership with Age UK and encourage County FAs to forge new collaborations to expand Just Playopportunities.
Progressing Governance
Annual reviews of the laws of the game will help standardize rules and ensure consistency across all levels, with sanctioning reflecting these changes.
The FA’s Gameplan aims to boost the popularity and sustainability of Walking Football, providing new opportunities for players, volunteers, and communities nationwide.
Essex Walking Football League welcome the plan and will continue to support and participate in the FA run competitions and take advantage of the training opportunities for referees.
Over the past seven years the League has worked hard to provide competitive walking football and will work to continue with this work as well as engage with the FA to influence positive change within walking football.
For the full document please see under League Documents.