Could you start by telling us a little about your background such as if you were you a sporty person when you were younger, and how long you had a break from playing sports before you got involved with Walking Football?
In my teens I played football at a low level and also some athletics.When I got involved in Walking Football I had’nt played for over 40 years but have always kept in good shape.
How long have you played Walking Football?
1.75 years.
Why did you first get involved with Walking Football?
My brother Vince had been playing for a few months at Barnet so I decided to give it a try.
How many times a week do you take part in Walking Football sessions?
2.
Can you let the readers know about your Walking Football sessions in regards of which age group are they for, are they male only, female only or unisex sessions?
Over 50 mixed sessions.
When you play a game of Walking Football do you play to the WFA, WFS, WFU or FA rules and why did your club decide to follow those rules of the game?
We play to the rules of common sense which seem to be the Fa rules in general.
Describe the buzz you get having the opportunity to play a team sport again at your age?
I particularly like competitions and competitive games in general.
I enjoy the challenge of having to play well consistently and perform for my teammates.
What one or two things do you currently do in your training sessions that you think are important to avoid injury?
I wear all the protective gear available and always stretch before any physical activity.
Have you played competitive Walking Football, if so which tournaments / leagues?
Yes I’ve played in many tournaments with Barnet including the EFL Cup at Saint George’s park & The Fa people’s Cup.
Has your diet changed since you have started playing Walking Football? If so what is different?
No.
Do you feel fitter and healthier since you have started playing Walking Football and if please describe how?
I don’t feel fitter as l’ve always been very fit but being outdoors more has probably been beneficial.
Can you describe any injuries you have suffered when playing Walking Football and can you let the readers know how they were caused?
As a goalkeeper I have suffered a lot of injuries especially in the first few months.Damaged fingers,wrist and shoulder injuries which come with the territory.
Do you always have a club member present who has had first aid training at your games and training sessions, and is there a defibrillator available if needed?
Yes Our trust has a member present and a defrib is available.
Has your social life changed since you started playing, and if so in what way?
No.
Does your club or facility where you play Walking Football hold any social or charity events connected with Walking Football and if so what were they?
Yes we have an excellent social having games evenings and we have a quiz evening soon. We are also involved in multiple fund raising activities, most recent was for Muswell Hill Food Bank helping re stock for the Xmas period.
What are your best and worst memories of playing Walking Football?
I have no bad memories.The best is playing at St George’s Park in the national cup finals.
How else has playing Walking Football affected your life?
Another interest is always good.
What do you like most about Walking Football?
Playing in competitions.
What do you like least about Walking Football?
Inconsistent refereeing.
What are your goals for the future when playing Walking Football?
Win as many games as possible.
What advice would you give to someone who would like to play but is nervous about approaching a club or attending a Walking Football session for the first time?
Just take the plunge you’ll find a warm welcome.
What do your friends and family think about you playing a sport again at your age?
My age doesn’t come into it.What’s not to like.
What are the costs involved in order for you to play Walking Football for foot ware, kit and weekly session fees?
When I started I had no kit at all.Good gloves are very expensive,I’m now on my third pair.In total I’ve spent over £400.
Weekly costs are £5 per week.
Anything else you’d like to share?
It’s a great sport, I’d recommend it to anyone.
Author: The Walking Football
You create the memories; we help you relive them forever!
