Researchers at South East Technological University (SETU) are inviting men across Waterford and West Cork to take part in Football for Life, a community-based football programme exploring how recreational football can support physical health, wellbeing and social connection.
Delivered in partnership with the FAI and HSE at Villa FC, Dungarvan United AFC and Clonakilty AFC, the free 12-week programme is designed to provide an enjoyable, welcoming environment where participants can become more active while contributing to important research into men's health.
The Football for Life programme forms part of a PhD study by Chief Mdoe Ibrahim in SETU's Department of Sport and Exercise Science. The research will evaluate whether community football programmes can provide an effective and sustainable way of engaging adult men in regular physical activity while promoting social connection and overall wellbeing.
Beginning in September, the Waterford participants will take part in two one-hour sessions each week, incorporating warm-up activities, football skills, and small-sided, non-competitive games. The programme is open to adult men aged 18 years and over, regardless of previous football experience.
In Clonakilty, men who register will receive a series of Free Health assessments in September and November 2026, with a follow-up assessment in February 2027. Participants will then have the opportunity to take part in the Free 12-week Football for Life programme in March 2027.
Alongside the football sessions, participants will receive free health assessments and personalised feedback throughout the programme.
Football has a unique ability to bring people together, regardless of age or previous playing experience. Through Football for Life, we want to explore how community football can support men's physical health, wellbeing and social connection."
Chief Mdoe Ibrahim, PhD Candidate, SETU Department of Sports and Exercise Science
Chief Mdoe Ibrahim said, "Football has a unique ability to bring people together, regardless of age or previous playing experience. Through Football for Life, we want to explore how community football can support men's physical health, wellbeing and social connection. Whether you've played for years or are pulling on your boots for the first time in a long while, everyone is welcome. We hope participants enjoy the experience while contributing to research that could help shape future community health initiatives."
Dr Paula Carroll, supervisor of the research in SETU's Department of Sport and Exercise Science said, "Community-based initiatives like Football for Life have enormous potential to improve health while strengthening social connections. This research will provide valuable evidence on how sport can be used to engage men in positive lifestyle changes within their own communities."
Recruitment for the programme is now open. Anyone interested in taking part should contact [email protected] or text 087 428 8201 for further information before 11th September 2026.
The study has received ethical approval from the South East Technological University Research Ethics Committee (Ref. No. SETU/REC/25/26/080).
