What to expect at FootballXL
At FootballXL, our mission is to tackle the two biggest threats to men’s health, mental illness and heart disease, by using the power of football to change lives.
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Founded in Wakefield by seven ordinary men who wanted to make a real difference, FootballXL brings men together in a safe, supportive environment where football becomes a tool for connection, confidence and change.
We operate through weekly league sessions that combine wellbeing check-ins with up to 50 minutes of inclusive football, adapted each week to suit the number of players so everyone gets time on the ball.
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Each league is supported by trained player facilitators who provide 1:1 encouragement, track individual wellbeing data, and reach out to anyone who may be struggling, helping them access the right support.
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Beyond the pitch, we build community through team groups, social events, tournaments and ongoing guidance around mental and physical wellbeing — because progress doesn’t stop when the whistle blows.
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Our goal is simple: to help men live healthier, happier lives by making it easier to talk, easier to move, and easier to belong.
On the night.
At FootballXL, you’ll take part in relaxed, inclusive football sessions created for men with a BMI over 25 who want to boost both their mental and physical wellbeing.
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On the evening of your session, please arrive 15–20 minutes before kick-off and head to the weigh-in area. You’ll be welcomed by a FootballXL facilitator, weighed in, and have a friendly check-in chat.
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Next, you’ll warm up before meeting your team captain for a short pre-match wellbeing huddle. This is a chance for teammates to talk about how their week has been and how they’re feeling. You’re always welcome to share — but only if you’re comfortable.
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You’ll then head onto the pitch for a 50-minute game, played in a 6v6, 7v7, 8v8 or 9v9 format, depending on player numbers. Your captain and the facilitators will organise everything for you.
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The following day, you’ll receive an email confirming that match results and league tables have been updated. You’ll also be invited to log into your personal FXL Journey page, where you can track your weigh-ins and see your full FootballXL progress.
What happens when I sign up?
Once you have purchased a membership, you will be allocated a team by the FootballXL management team. You will recieve an email confirming the team that you are assigned to, a link to your teams WhatsApp group and a link to the wider FootballXL communications group. ​​
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Your welcome email will also contain a link to your fixtures and the the FootballXL rules. Please take the time to read the rules before you attend your first session.
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