Following on from the first National Cup, The WFA realised just how good it would be to be able to fulfil the dreams of many of these players – so England trials were held. The standard was extremely high and a National Squad of some 18 players was selected with one team being Under 55 and the other Over 55. They played together as a team for the first time at the England training day at Burton in August and had their first International in Belfast against Northern Ireland in November 22. They are travelling to Singapore to play internationals against Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore in March 23, playing ret[urn matches against Northern Ireland in May 23 and will take part in the Ray Kennedy competition later in the year. The squad a superb role models and are looking forward to playing many more matches, confounding the perceptions many have of people with PD, giving many people hope and proving what can be achieved
The Parkinson’s England team took part in this overseas tournament – having to deal with a 13 hour flight, jetlag, 35 degrees and humidity to then play in a 7 hour tournament against 3 non-PD International teams – what a tall order.
The team are quite simply inspirational – they met up with the local Parkinson’s group in Singapore to talk to them, give them hope, ‘educate’ them – show them what can be achieved and they were all amazed. They willingly took part in some research regarding walking/age/height/weight before having a training session. In the tournament itself they opened with a 4-0 win against WF4H Singapore. As is regular in Singapore, a torrential downpour was followed by lightening storm warnings and 90 minute delay in playing.
Most players would stiffen-up but this is more daunting for PD players who are trying to balance their medications during the day to allow them to play. After the break they won 7-0 against a Singapore B team and the decider was against Indonesia – a tight game with Garen Williams getting the winner 5 minutes from time. Played 3, won 3. Scored 12 conceded 0. All against non PD teams. No-one should under-estimate what a huge achievement and statement this is. The trophy was collected to ‘Sweet Caroline’ and the celebrations began.
Watching the team get back on the bus just cemented, for me, what they had put into the day. They were physically and mentally drained – wasted – needing rest and medication – and then bouncing back to end the experience with a celebration!!! – What a pleasure and privilege to have travelled with and been part of this group. What a journey – formed less than a year ago – and the whole group led superbly and compassionately by Stu Carrington and Physio Jo Eastough – both of who are integral to what this group have achieved. Simply – inspirational
More Information: https://thewfa.co.uk/
Author: The Walking Football
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