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 at the tender age of 7, playing in an Under 12 age group. My neighbour, Wayne, and I played for many years together as juniors, as we were the same age. The same neighbour introduced me to playing baseball and all these years I have continued to play both codes in the 2 major seasons (Summer and Winter).
I stopped playing for 1 season due to an operation – ACL Right Knee) after which I continued to play. That was about 15 years ago (2003) and with my disciplined rehab program for my knee, I was swimming and cycling daily to build up the muscle around the knee.
I Thank God that have not had any problems with my knee since then. I then started coaching and was chosen as Head Coach of the South African Football Team to the DEAFLYMPICS in Taiwan in 2009. That was the “cherry on the top” for my Football career. Walking Football has re-ignited that flame again with the desire to play again.
How long have you played Walking Football?
I joined Walking Football in August 2017, and have been playing regularly, at least 2 or 3 times per week.
Why did you first get involved with Walking Football?
I stopped playing regular football about 2 seasons ago to take up Road Running as an alternative sport, and thanks to my wife for introducing me to running. I immediately fell in love with Road Running and at the same time I was also invited to play in exhibition walking football matches regularly. I soon realised that because I was running regularly, I was able to run much better during the matches. When Rudy invited me to try out Walking Football, I did not hesitate to join a new game and take up the challenge. I am extremely grateful to him for introducing me to the game and in this way, I am able to keep my fitness levels at optimum levels.
How many times a week do you take part in Walking Football sessions?
I try to get to most of the games because as a CT Walking Football Ambassador, I need to be visible to the players. I also make sure that I keep the motivation going amongst the players by chirping/teasing them.
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 are all 50+ males, with some of the guys closer to 60. When we started out we had a few women, but sadly they opted out.
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?
We adapted the rules of Walking Football to suit our needs and what we envisaged how the game needs to be played. We do not allow contact of any sort, no tackling, the ball is allowed head height, and NO RUNNING, or quick steps ( like I call it)
Describe the buzz you get having the opportunity to play a team sport again at your age?
With all of us being over 50 years young, we at some time or other competed in regular football back in the days. The camaraderie amongst the guys is totally amazing, as many of the former pro and talented players are playing alongside the guys who did not play pro footy back then. We have guys who have joined who played Schools Football together for the Provincial Teams and love being on the field again. We have truly bonded many friends of years gone by again.
What one or two things do you currently do in your training sessions that you think are important to avoid injury?
As a seasoned ex-pro player, it is important to always stretch before you begin any form of exercise. I try to get the guys to always do some stretching before the game. Before most games I will do a run of at least 5km on the evening of the game.
Have you played competitive Walking Football, if so which tournaments / leagues?
We are in the foetal stages of development and had a small tournament amongst each other recently and all went well. We have earmarked players who could make a representative team for our region/city, to compete against other regions/cities.
Has your diet changed since you have started playing Walking Football? If so what is different?
Before joining Walking Football, I changed my eating plan, I cut out wheat, fizzy drinks, juices and dairy products from my diet. My sugar intake was also cut to a bare minimal (about 2 spoons per day), while my water intake has increased tenfold.
Do you feel fitter and healthier since you have started playing Walking Football and if please describe how?
I feel much stronger since playing Walking Football as it has kept my fitness levels at a good standard. When I play regular football, I am able to run for longer periods and use the triangles from Walking Football more often in my games. Walking Football has taught me more about moving into spaces and the boys I teach at school also enjoy the movement off the ball.
Can you describe any injuries you have suffered when playing Walking Football and can you let the readers know how they were caused?
Thank God I have not had any serious injuries besides a bit of a niggle here or there.
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 some ice packs and I have done First Aid training, so I have some knowledge of the basics regarding injuries.
Has your social life changed since you started playing, and if so in what way?
I have joined a NEW BROTHERHOOD of Gentlemen who care about each other more than the result of the game. The Fellowship and Togetherness that Walking Football has brought to our guys is truly amazing and we are one BIG HAPPY CREW of Walking Footballers.
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?
No, we are independent from any other structures and are working on forging alliances with other codes and organisations. Some of our members recently did the Cancer 12 Hour Relay, as we have some members who have Cancer. A few others sponsored an under-privileged school girl with a pair of running spikes to compete in a regional Athletics Meeting. Soon we will be working in unison with organisations whom we can assist in some way or other.
What are your best and worst memories of playing Walking Football?
Mostly, I only have good memories of Walking Football. I do have one sad memory of Walking Football and that is when one of our players said he’s not going to be playing any more. He gave no reason and we tried to persuade him to stay but to no avail. We respect him for his decision but are waiting with open arms for him to return.
How else has playing Walking Football affected your life?
I am actively involved and assist at most of the games I attend with selecting the teams to compete for the night/day. I feel honoured to have been asked to serve on the EXCO and to be an Ambassador for Walking Football. I feel Blessed and look forward to games with great enthusiasm.
What do you like most about Walking Football?
The BROTHERHOOD amongst the guys is totally amazing. On arrival or before games the guys will greet each other with a handshake or a hug and you can feel the BROTHERLY LOVE from each other.
What do you like least about Walking Football?
Injuries and when games have to be cancelled due to logistical problems, like booking issues…
Do you find it difficult NOT to run and what advice could you give someone in how to remain at walking pace?
It was an adjustment in the beginning but we were strict on the NO Running rule.
What are your goals for the future when playing Walking Football?
To ensure that we get all those people off the couch and start doing some exercise through something they LOVE. Most people stop playing because they not as mobile as before and don’t want unnecessary injuries or knocks while playing. Walking football allows you to play and remain injury free, however, we must remind ourselves we are 50 plus…hahahahahaha.
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?
I would insist that they try out the game before making any judgement on Walking Football. Most of the guys I introduced to the game are still playing and Loving it.
What do your friends and family think about you playing a sport again at your age?
Most of them laugh when I tell them, but they don’t know that I have a good exercise/ workout at least 3 times per week. I promote Walking Football at every opportunity I get and always sell the idea to others to come and try it.
What are the costs involved in order for you to play Walking Football for foot ware, kit and weekly session fees?
Our sessions cost about R30 per game, while any comfortable shoes will do. We have bought bibs and cones were donated by some members to help setup games.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I just want to thank our CEO, Rudy, for all his hard work and effort he puts in, to make Cape Town Walking Football a success. Also a special word of thanks to Nuraan, Rudy’s wife, for always being there for the guys and showing us so much Love by having drinks and snacks always ready after games.
Lastly to everyone connected to Cape Town Walking Football, I am so glad we found each other again on the playing fields…God Bless You All…Thanks for everything.
Author: The Walking Football
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