I would just like to start this interview by wishing Patrick a very happy 72nd birthday for later this week, from everyone here at WalkingFootball.com
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?
I started playing football when I was 30+ and I have continued ever since. I still play 11 aside running footy.
How long have you played Walking Football?
2 years.
Why did you first get involved with Walking Football?
I foresaw a time when I couldn’t run!
How many times a week do you take part in Walking Football sessions?
1.
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?
We have a wide spread from 50 to 80+ unisex.
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 and aside from that only FA rules which talks for itself.
Describe the buzz you get having the opportunity to play a team sport again at your age?
I have enjoyed football since I first played and I no doubt will continue to do so till they carry me off!
What one or two things do you currently do in your training sessions that you think are important to avoid injury?
I have never been one to do traditional warm ups and I won’t start now.
Have you played competitive Walking Football, if so which tournaments / leagues?
Have played in various over 65 tournaments and in the S&S Middlesex league over 60s.
Has your diet changed since you have started playing Walking Football? If so what is different?
Nothing.
Do you feel fitter and healthier since you have started playing Walking Football and if please describe how?
Its in addition to my other activities, as an actor I keep fit doing fight scenes and continue to keep fit.
Can you describe any injuries you have suffered when playing Walking Football and can you let the readers know how they were caused? None.
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?
We have defibrillators available and always a recognised first aider.
Has your social life changed since you started playing, and if so in what way?
Not really but I enjoy the banter at our sessions.
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 done numerous events both social and fund raising.
What are your best and worst memories of playing Walking Football?
Best is playing and worst is not able to!
How else has playing Walking Football affected your life?
Keeps me fit healthy and have made some wonderful new friends especially Shaun.
What do you like most about Walking Football?
Playing!
Having a drink with the lads and the over 65 tournaments.
What do you like least about Walking Football?
Walking!
Not playing.
Do you find it difficult NOT to run and what advice could you give someone in how to remain at walking pace?
As I play running on a Thursday and walking on a Friday it can be difficult.
What are your goals for the future when playing Walking Football?
Continue to enjoy it.
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?
Everyone is very welcoming and you will never regret joining!
What do your friends and family think about you playing a sport again at your age?
They think I’m mad but who cares!
What are the costs involved in order for you to play Walking Football for foot ware, kit and weekly session fees?
£3.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Happiness!
Author: The Walking Football
You create the memories; we help you relive them forever!
