A ‘mentor, motivator and lifeline for many’ has been recognised for transforming what began as a small walking football idea into a thriving community hub.
Rothwell Pirates Walking Football Club is a group which offers walking football for the over-50s.
Rob Quayle has been a huge part of the club since its launch two years ago and earlier this year he was named coach of the year by Northamptonshire Football Association.
Speaking on a podcast about the club, Rob said: “Initially after moving to Rothwell in 2019, I wanted to play football and had heard about walking football.
Rothwell Pirates Walking Football Club founder
“Rothwell didn’t have a walking football team so Chris Terry from FC Aztecs invited me to start a team and affiliate it to them – I did.
“I created a badge for the kit which was completely different from the Aztecs and based on two of my big loves, Adam And The Ants cross-over with FC Ajax and you can see that just by looking at the badge.
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“The new club, Rothwell Pirates, were born out of leaving Aztecs. Pirates is another great passion of mine and it came with a very simple skull and crossbones with no words as it speaks for itself.
“The aim was initially to play football but soon realised there was an opportunity for something more adventurous like football for the over-50s and in particular an all inclusive club regardless of skill or fitness levels so in effect a community social club.”
Rob received the Northamptonshire FA coach of the year award (male pathway) at a gala event held at Sixfields in Northampton.
Rob described it as a ‘great honour and privilege, extremely humbling’ and added: “I contest to this day that this is a club award and not an individual award as none of the achievements could have come to fruition without the club members.”
A post on the FA Facebook page about Rob’s award said: “Rob Quayle has transformed what began as a small walking football idea into a thriving community hub for over 30 players.
“More than just a coach, Rob is a mentor, motivator and lifeline for many. He has created a welcoming, inclusive space for players of all backgrounds and abilities, fostering friendship, fitness and mental well-being.”
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Author: The Walking Football
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