Cefn Community Council’s first-ever walking football session got off to a strong start at Plas Madoc Leisure Centre recently, with a fantastic turnout from local residents.
The new session welcomed members of the community — including people born and raised in the area — for an hour of football, conversation and social connection. Organisers said the launch highlighted the power of sport to bring people together and boost community spirit.
The session was led by Community Agent Donna Thornley and UEFA B Licensed Community Development Officer Andrew Ruscoe. Both described the opening event as a success and said they are already looking forward to next week.
Cefn Community Council walking football
Donna Thornley said the new sessions could play an important role in reaching men aged over 50, a group she often finds difficult to engage in her role as Community Agent.
“I’m really pleased to have been part of the setup and delivery today at Plas Madoc,” she said. “In my role as Community Agent, I often struggle to engage males over 50, and these walking football sessions will help connect people socially.
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“Research shows that regular social activity and light physical exercise can significantly improve mental wellbeing, reduce loneliness, and even lower risks of heart disease and depression. This could even lead to a Cefn Mawr Walking Football Team!”
Andrew Ruscoe, who has previously supported walking football development with Brickfield Rangers and Chester FC, said he was keen to help introduce a similar opportunity in Cefn.
“I’ve been involved in Walking Football development with Brickfield Rangers and Chester FC, both of which have gone from strength to strength,” he commented. “I was keen to help bring something similar to Cefn — not only to support Donna’s vision for sport in the community, but to help tackle obesity and sedentary lifestyles.
“Physical activity like walking football is proven to improve cardiovascular health, mobility, and overall wellbeing while reducing long-term strain on NHS services. Football really is a unique way of bringing people together.”
Organisers also thanked Liam Jones of Active Wrexham, Sian Brierley of Wrexham Council’s National Referral Exercise Scheme, and Cefn Community Council for their support in getting the initiative off the ground.
Walking football sessions will now run every Tuesday from noon to 1pm at Plas Madoc Leisure Centre, with organisers stressing that everyone is welcome.
People interested in joining can simply turn up on the day or contact Donna Thornley via donna@cefncommunitycouncil.gov.uk. Andrew Ruscoe can also be contacted on 07503 515057.
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Author: The Walking Football
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