Lancashire FA and Manchester FA are delighted to announce that 2023/24 will be the first season of the new North West Military Veterans League, which will bring ex-forces personnel from across the North West together to play regular competitive football.

Fixtures will take place every 4-6 weeks at a central venue with varied kick off times.

The league also intends to provide education and support to team players and volunteers through CPD and workshops from armed forces charities and organisation at fixture dates throughout the season.

A number of clubs and community trusts are already signed up to the 7-a-side league featuring teams from Burnley FC, Curzon Ashton, Fleetwood Town, Foundation 92, AFC Fylde, Liverpool FC, Blackpool FC, Oldham Athletic, Preston North End and Rochdale AFC. 

Clubs or community trusts with existing military veterans’ provision or interested in starting are encouraged to take part. 

All new teams will receive £200 in funding to support their set up with purchasing kit, equipment or for match fees.

Daniella Worth, Veteran Project Coordinator at Burnley FC in the Community, said: “This is a great opportunity for BFCitC Military Veterans and from across the North West to be a part of the new sanctioned league run by Lancashire and Manchester FA. We can’t wait to get stuck in and play football with our fellow North West Sports Clubs and Charities.”

Joe Mathias (Manchester FA) and Leigh Jeffrey (Lancashire FA) added: “We are delighted to be able to provide this new offer to veterans of the armed forces in the North West. We have made sure to include members of the community in designing the league to ensure it fits their requirements and we can’t wait to get the football underway in September.”

If you are a military veteran and are interested in joining or starting a team in your area, please contact either Joe.Mathias@ManchesterFA.com (Manchester FA) or Leigh.Jeffrey@LancashireFA.com (Lancashire FA) to find out more.