Name: George Harman
Age: 51
Location: Romford, Essex
Walking Football Club Name: TRA Romford and Dagenham and Redbridge FC
Favourite Position: Defence
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 have always been good at sports, but my one love as a kid growing up in Poplar East London was football and my dream was to play football for my local team West Ham United FC but like many other kids in East London, I gave up the dream and found my level over Hackney Marshes playing for local pub teams.
How long have you played Walking Football?
I have been playing for two years and loved every minute of being in a very good team and back playing a sport I love.
Why did you first get involved with Walking Football?
I watched the Barclays Bank Walking Football advert on television one day and to be honest thought it was so funny watching old boys walking after a football but a part of me admired there commitment and togetherness to promote Wwalking Football.
It also made me question the benefits that taking part in Walking Football would bring, is there any negatives to playing walking football?
How many times a week do you take part in Walking Football sessions?
I aim to attend training at least once a week.
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?
Walking Football at TRA Romford is a place where regardless of your ability or sex you are welcome and this applies to most clubs involved in Walking Football.
TRA Romford training is based on fun so if your expecting football drills and demanding exercise your be disappointed, our training is relaxed and involves a football and a pitch and a great group of people.
When you play a game of Walking Football do you play to the WFA / WFU or FA rules and why did your club decide to follow those rules of the game?
At TRA Romford we are involved in a lot of tournaments and leagues and the rules we follow tend to change, but I personally like WFA rules but overall they are very similar.
Describe the buzz you get having the opportunity to play a team sport again at your age?
I thought I was going mad when I began to clean the cob webs off my old boots to attend Walking Football for the first session but I can honestly say I love the thrill of playing football again.
I would encourage everyone to over look reasons not to try Walking Football and to join a club.
What one or two things do you currently do in your training sessions that you think are important to avoid injury?
For me personally Its important to warm up with stretches at every session and game.
Have you played competitive Walking Football, if so which tournaments / leagues?
TRA Romford Walking Football as been a very successful team over the last two years, we have won the Essex League two years running and six different tournaments over the last two years, we are a good team but its about taking part that’s important to us.
Has your diet changed since you have started playing Walking Football? If so what is different?
My diet as not been too good lately this is due to getting married in Jamaica and staying in a fully inclusive hotel, but Walking Football with the right diet is a good way to lose weight.
Do you feel fitter and healthier since you have started playing Walking Football and if please describe how?
I honestly believe my fitness levels have improved over the last two years.
I have also heard through many players throughout the Walking Football family that mentally they feel better, totally agree its another positive side to playing Walking Football.
Can you describe any injuries you have suffered when playing Walking Football and can you let the readers know how they were caused?
I have suffered a few minor injuries in the form of twisted ankles but I have started wearing ankle supports and shin pads which have helped my weak ankles.
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?
I have through my work attended a lot of First Aid courses and I am fully trained to treat injuries.
TRA Romford have visited a large amount of football centres who have good first aid facilities.
Has your social life changed since you started playing, and if so in what way?
Walking Football as really given me a new set of friends who live in the same area and I often talk to team members in the community.
We train in Romford which as a licenced bar, we also arrange nights out.
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?
We attend many tournaments and league games where there is club houses, we are also looking at organizing a Walking Football event.
What are your best and worst memories of playing Walking Football?
I have enjoyed every minute of being part of a Walking football team but our first Essex League win was special.
I don’t like seeing players getting injured but they happen and its part of football at all levels.
How else has playing Walking Football affected your life?
Walking Football as a lot of benefits physically and mentally but it also gives you a social life and feeling of being part of a team / set up.
What do you like most about Walking Football?
Playing different teams and testing my ability against good players.
What do you like least about Walking Football?
Cheating and bad referring.
Do you find it difficult NOT to run and what advice could you give someone in how to remain at walking pace?
I find it easy not to run but adjust my style on the refs strictness and the opposing forwards trying to gain an advantage by running.
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?
The internet is a great starting point to search and find a Walking Football team in your area, I would highly recommend attending a session as a spectator if you feel nervous or unsure.
What do your friends and family think about you playing a sport again at your age?
Walking Football does make people laugh and smile but they all agree its a great idea to get older people active, my doctor loves the fact I’m keeping fit doing something I enjoy.
What are the costs involved in order for you to play Walking Football for foot ware, kit and weekly session fees?
The costs are really low with training prices being around five pounds.
The kit and footwear depends on how pretty you want to look but remember its not a fashion show.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Walking Football really does have benefits, so find a team and get involved.
Author: The Walking Football
You create the memories; we help you relive them forever!
