Rushall Olympic Football Club, nicknamed “The Pics,” is a non-league football club based in Walsall, West Midlands.
Established in 1951, they currently compete in the Vanarama National League North, which is part of the sixth tier of English football. The team calls Dales Lane their home ground.
Initially thought to be established later, the club has roots dating back to the 1893-94 season, as evidenced by local newspaper match reports. Initially playing friendly matches, they soon joined the Cannock & District Football League, achieving early success and becoming a significant part of the Walsall & District League across various divisions. An intriguing historical anecdote includes a match in 1874 against a Walsall team, where Rushall, aided by extra Walsall players due to an abundance of attendees, triumphed in a 15-a-side format game.
Post-World War I, Rushall Olympic became a prominent local club, winning multiple championships and cups during the 1920s and 1930s, before disbanding prior to World War II. The club was revived in 1951 by local enthusiasts, initially using a fish and chip shop as their headquarters. Their post-war resurgence saw them winning leagues and cups, changing kits, and moving grounds, reflecting a community’s commitment to its football club. By 1978, the club had joined the West Midlands (Regional) League, ascending to higher competition levels and maintaining moderate success through the 1980s and 1990s.
Entering the 21st century, Rushall Olympic achieved significant milestones, including a memorable 2004-05 season under John Allen’s management, resulting in their promotion to the Southern Football League Division One West. Over the following years, the club secured multiple cup victories and play-off appearances, eventually earning promotion to the Vanarama National League North in 2022-23 following a series of strategic managerial changes and player development, culminating in a historical treble including the Staffordshire Senior Cup and Walsall Senior Cup. The club’s journey reflects its deep community roots, resilience, and evolving success within non-league football.