Winchester Hit the Ground Running in New Hampshire FA Over-70s League (Of course when we say 'running' we are speaking metaphorically!)

A brand-new Hampshire FA Over-70s Walking Football monthly competitive league kicked off at Stoneham on Thursday 11 September 2025, and Winchester Walking Football have wasted no time making their mark. As things stand, Winchester sit proudly at the top of the table — a terrific early statement in what promises to be a competitive season.

The league is played on the second Thursday of each month and will run through to March 2026, giving plenty of football (and banter) still to come.

Winchester’s strong start has been helped by the welcome addition of several players from Salisbury, a sensible and mutually beneficial arrangement. Due to the age criteria, it wouldn’t be practical for both clubs to field separate Over-70s teams, so joining forces has strengthened the squad while keeping everyone playing the game they love.

As ever in walking football, goalkeepers remain a precious resource. To help teams compete, the qualifying age for keepers is sensibly reduced from 70 to 65, which has already proved invaluable.

With one exception, the league is made up entirely of Hampshire-based clubs. The full line-up includes Winchester, Cove, Eastleigh, Fleet, Gosport, Havant and Portsmouth, with Bournemouth joining the league after stepping in when a Hampshire side withdrew at the last minute.

Being a Hampshire FA competition, matches are played under three-touch rules, and as an Over-70s league it is contested seven-a-side, striking a great balance between skill, teamwork and fitness.

A fantastic new competition, a strong Winchester start, and plenty more football ahead — watch this space. ⚽