A new Parkinson’s Walking Football team has been launched in Oxfordshire, bringing people affected by the condition together through regular exercise and social connection.

The initiative has been set up in collaboration with local grassroots club Quarry Rovers, supported by Parkinson’s UK, and is run by Oxford United in the Community. The programme aims to help participants stay active, with regular exercise shown to help slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease.

Founder Mark Pritchard, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2020, hopes the sessions will grow into a strong county-wide community.

“It’s about having fun,” he said. “I think it’s really important for us as a Parkinson’s community to come together, share experiences and build a strong social support network.”

Taking place every Thursday, the weekly sessions are delivered by Oxford United in the Community at the Oxford United Training Centre, with the charity providing both the pitch and coaching support.

New Parkinson’s Walking Football team

Mark added: “When I first spoke to Matt Everett, I was overwhelmed by the level of support offered. It was clear how much belief there was in what we’re trying to achieve, and that support has been vital in getting this up and running.”

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The launch session was given an added boost by a surprise visit from Peter Rhoades-Brown, an Oxford United legend and Club Ambassador, who spoke to participants before play began.

Among those attending was Jonathan Corp, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s three years ago.

“Today’s session has been amazing,” he said. “Exercise is so important for people with Parkinson’s, and when I heard about this walking football programme, I jumped at the chance to get involved.”

Source: https://www.efl.com/news/2026/february/09/oxford-united-launch-parkinson-s-walking-football-programme/