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For 59-year-old William Black, joining the Rangers Charity Foundation’s Walking Football programme has been about far more than simply playing football. It has become an important part of his weekly routine, helping him stay active, connect with others and enjoy a strong sense of belonging.

The Walking Football programme, delivered by the Foundation and supported by Rangers Football Club’s Official Sleeve Partner, BOXT, provides free weekly sessions for people aged 50 and over. Taking place at the Ibrox Community Complex, the programme encourages participants to improve their physical health, maintain mobility and build social connections in a supportive and welcoming setting. It is designed to make football accessible to everyone, regardless of fitness level or previous experience.

After retiring as a train driver, William first became involved with the Foundation through the Football Fans in Training programme. After hearing about Walking Football on the course, he decided to attend a session and see what it was all about.

He quickly realised it offered exactly what he was looking for.

“I wanted something that would keep me moving as I got older,” William explains. “After years in a job where I was sitting for long periods, I knew I needed to be more active. Walking Football gave me that opportunity, but it also gave me much more than I expected.”

For William, the sessions provide a meaningful way to improve his health while enjoying the game he has always loved.

“It keeps you fit, keeps your body moving and gives you something to look forward to every week. At this stage in life, that matters. It is not about competing at the highest level. It is about staying healthy, enjoying yourself and doing it with others.”

What has made the biggest difference, however, is the community around the programme.

From his first day, William felt welcomed by staff and fellow participants alike.

“There is a brilliant atmosphere. Everyone is there for the same reason, to enjoy themselves and be part of something positive. You are made to feel included straight away.”

He describes the group as a close and supportive network where friendships develop naturally.

“You meet people from all sorts of backgrounds, but once you are there, everyone is equal.”

“There is always a laugh, always encouragement, and you leave feeling better than when you arrived.”

That sense of camaraderie extends beyond the football itself. For many participants, the social aspect of the programme is just as valuable as the physical activity.

“The cup of tea and chat afterwards is as important as the match. It gives everyone the chance to connect. For some people, that conversation might be the highlight of their week.”

William understands how important those moments can be. Following the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, he found it challenging to re-engage socially.

“When you spend so much time on your own, it can be difficult to get back out there. Walking Football gave me a reason to step back into a social environment. It helped me rebuild confidence and reminded me how important company is.”

He believes the programme has a powerful role in tackling loneliness and supporting wellbeing among older adults.

“There are people here for whom this is their main outing each week. It gets them out of the house, into good company and involved in something meaningful. That has a huge impact.”

One of William’s standout memories from his time with the programme was travelling to Düsseldorf to compete in a tournament, where he experienced the wider walking football community.

“It was unforgettable. Meeting people from different countries, all brought together by football, was something special. The atmosphere was fantastic and it showed just how universal the game really is.”

Experiences like this have strengthened his appreciation for the programme and what it offers.

“It is not just a session on a Thursday morning. It opens doors, creates memories and gives people opportunities they might never have expected.”

Over time, William’s involvement in Walking Football has inspired him to stay active in other areas too. He now plays in additional sessions elsewhere during the week, further improving his fitness and expanding his social circle.

“It gave me the confidence to do more. Once you get started, you realise what you are capable of. It becomes part of your lifestyle.”

For William, the Rangers Charity Foundation’s Walking Football programme represents everything community sport should be: inclusive, supportive and genuinely life enhancing.

His advice to anyone considering joining is clear.

“Come along and give it a go. You have nothing to lose and so much to gain. The hardest part is turning up that first time. After that, you will wonder why you did not do it sooner.”

Through programmes like Walking Football, the Rangers Charity Foundation continues to demonstrate the transformative power of sport. For William, it has provided fitness, friendship and a renewed sense of purpose.

The Foundation would like to thank BOXT for their funding support of this important programme throughout season 2025/26.