23 August 2026
By Valerie Ryan
Valerie@TheCork.ie
Health News
Men in West Cork are invited to take part in an innovative South East Technological University (SETU) research study examining how football can support healthier lifestyles and improve wellbeing for men.
Researchers from SETU’s Department of Sport and Exercise Science are recruiting men to participate in the Football for Life study, a community-based research project designed to evaluate the impact of football on physical health, social connection and overall wellbeing for men.
As part of the study, Clonakilty AFC has been selected as one of the ‘comparisons in waiting’ clubs. 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.
The Football for Life programme has been designed to encourage inactive men to become more physically active through enjoyable, structured football sessions in a welcoming and supportive environment. The programme combines warm-up exercises, football skills and small-sided games while placing a strong emphasis on friendship, teamwork and social connection.
Importantly, previous football experience is not required, and men of all physical activity levels aged 18 years and over are encouraged to participate.
Chief Mdoe Ibrahim, PhD researcher at SETU, said “This is a fantastic opportunity for men to get a free health check while waiting to play the beautiful game of football in March 2027. Football sessions will be held at Clonakilty FC led by Football for Life instructors in a fun and supportive environment. Whether you’ve played for years or are lacing up your boots for the first time in a while, everyone will be welcomed. Football for Life sessions will be a great way to get active, meet new people, reconnect with old friends and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being part of a team.”
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.”
Men interested in participating in the Free Health Check at Clonakilty AFC should contact the research team at FootballResearch@setu.ie or call 087 428 8201 before 29 August 2026.
The research has received ethical approval from the South East Technological University Research Ethics Committee (Ref. No. SETU/REC/25/26/080).