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?
Always played football since primary school. Always involved in sporting activities. Trained as a PE teacher. Played football to a amateur level. The ASL league and Sunday football. Stopped playing for a team at 66yrs! The team disbanded. I continued playing on AstroTurf one evening a week until at 6 this group disbanded. Kept fit by running and cycling. Met someone who invited me to join walking football.
How long have you played Walking Football?
About 3months with Barnet.
Why did you first get involved with Walking Football?
Love playing the game and to keep fit as well as enjoying the social interaction.
How many times a week do you take part in Walking Football sessions?
Barnet Fridays 2-3 .
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?
Barnet WFC is a large group of guys mainly. One female has participated in a couple of 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 follow the Fa rules of the game and we are affiliated to the Middlesex FA.
Describe the buzz you get having the opportunity to play a team sport again at your age?
Never lost the buzz !!
What one or two things do you currently do in your training sessions that you think are important to avoid injury?
I still remain as active as possible. Attend a Gym do cardio and weight training exercises. Cycle in better weather and swim occasionally.
Have you played competitive Walking Football, if so which tournaments / leagues?
I made my debut for Barnet 70s in their 1-1 draw with Cheshunt recently.
Has your diet changed since you have started playing Walking Football? If so what is different?
Always tried to eat healthily.
Do you feel fitter and healthier since you have started playing Walking Football and if please describe how?
Always tried to maintain my fitness level. Walking football gives me incentive.
Can you describe any injuries you have suffered when playing Walking Football and can you let the readers know how they were caused?
Minor aches and pains mainly in knees caused through general wear and tear. I feel better when I keep exercising. Not specific to walking football.
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?
The hive trust has full first aid training.
And defibrillators are on hand if needed.
Has your social life changed since you started playing, and if so in what way?
Met a good, similarly minded group of people who enjoy walking football.
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?
The team raise funds for numerous charities.
Thru games evenings and cake sales.
What are your best and worst memories of playing Walking Football?
Losing!!
How else has playing Walking Football affected your life?
Commitment. My wife has been encouraging and doesn’t arrange any social activities on Thursdays or Fridays!
Gives me a challenge.
What do you like most about Walking Football?
Winning a game. Playing well.
What do you like least about Walking Football?
When it’s called off!!!
Do you find it difficult NOT to run and what advice could you give someone in how to remain at walking pace?
It was difficult at first and still happens occasionally. Self discipline and positional play helps as does a good referee.
What are your goals for the future when playing Walking Football?
Play to the best of my ability and play to the highest standard 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?
Definitely give it a go. Come along and watch and don’t worry about previous experiences or your physical condition. There is enjoyment in just taking part.
What do your friends and family think about you playing a sport again at your age?
Never stopped. Very encouraging.
What are the costs involved in order for you to play Walking Football for foot ware, kit and weekly session fees?
Barnet is £3 per session.
Anything else you’d like to share?
You don’t have to stay after the game if you do not want to. The recognition that you have other commitments or just want to play the game and go is fine. Though there is a very warm welcome shown by both the clubs I attend to have refreshments after the game and to either discuss the game or put the world to rights!
Herby
Author: The Walking Football
You create the memories; we help you relive them forever!
