The Dunfermline Walking Football Group has been growing at a rapid pace, from casual sessions to fielding a side that reached this year’s Scottish Cup semi-final.

This year’s over 50s tournament took place last month at Glasgow Green and saw the team win four games before bowing out in the last four against Forfar Athletic.

The group’s Allan McCullough said: “It was an absolutely amazing achievement, one of the best experiences I’ve actually had playing. I couldn’t be prouder of the boys we had on the day.

“We actually had ex-Pars player John Watson playing in it. There were a couple of guys who said it was bizarre, because they were watching him back in the 80s!”

Teaming up with the Pars Foundation has given the outfit a major boost, allowing them to put on extra sessions and attract new members.

Allan continued: “We’re playing in competitions with the Dunfermline tops on. It adds a bit of allure for people who are thinking about giving it a go.”

Sessions are held in and around the city four days per week, with venues including Duloch Leisure Centre, Dunfermline Learning Campus, Pitreavie Sports and Soccer Centre, and Dalgety Bay Leisure Centre.
More information can be found at the Pars Foundation website. — Pic credit: Pars Foundation

The team also plays in a Dundee-based over-50s league, but whilst competition is a big part, the vast majority in the wider group of 70-80 people attend sessions casually.

Allan, 52, said: “It’s about giving people an opportunity to play, instead of sitting in the house. It’s for everybody, and has so many benefits for all ages.

“I had an injury years ago and didn’t think I would ever get back to playing football again, but now I’m doing it three times a week.

“Some people come to have a bit of a laugh or for fitness, and some take it really seriously.

“What we do on a Friday now is we play three 20 minute games with five or six a side, so they’re not too difficult if you’re a bit older.”

Sessions are held in and around the city four days per week, with venues including Duloch Leisure Centre, Dunfermline Learning Campus, Pitreavie Sports and Soccer Centre, and Dalgety Bay Leisure Centre.

More information can be found at the Pars Foundation website.

Source: https://www.dunfermlinepress.com/sport/26250954.dunfermline-walking-football-group-reaches-scottish-cup-semi-final/