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 played football from about the age of 16. Never quite good enough to play for the school. I started playing in local Youth Leagues and then amateur leagues in and around the Oldham area. I stopped playing when I got married due to work commitments. I played some football whilst working but not regularly. I retired 3 years ago aged 57 and needed something to get involved in and keep me fit. Walking football seemed the perfect answer.
How long have you played competitive Walking Football?
3 Years.
Why did you first get involved with Walking Football?
I saw the rubbish Barclays TV commercial and thought maybe???
How many times a week do you take part in Walking Football sessions?
A minimum of 2 and possibly 4 depending on league and competitions.
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?
On Monday I train with Stalybridge Vintage Celtic. This is a mixed group of men and women and ages from 30 upwards.
Wednesday I train with Manchester Corinthians and the age is from 60 upwards. All male.
Describe the buzz you get having the opportunity to play a team sport again at your age?
It’s great to compete, but I really enjoy meeting groups of players from all over, that I have played against before.
What does it feel like to play in a competitive Walking Football league?
I feel very lucky to be able to play with people of similar age and abilities. I still get that nervous excitement on league and competition days. It’s like being 16 again! I still have to have that pre-match wee J.
Does your league use the WFA , FA or another set of the laws of the game and why did your league decide to follow that set of rules?
The WFA rules are used.
Do you feel Walking Football referees are strict enough and what do you think can be done to try and stamp out running from the game?
I think the referees need to be as strict as necessary to stamp out the physical contact and running.
Do you yourself find it difficult NOT to run and what advice could you give someone in how to remain at walking pace?
I admit it’s difficult not to run especially when playing against other players that insist on running. You brain tells you to go with him. Its only referees that will stop it!
Have you played any other competitive Walking Football, if so which tournaments / competitions?
Yes I’ve played in lots of tournaments in the north of England.
I play in the Curzon Aston Friendly league which is a three touch league. This does cut out some of the running.
GMWF League.
What one or two things do you currently do in your training sessions that you think are important to avoid injury?
I think it’s essential to do a proper warm up session before games. Lots of stretching.
Has your diet changed since you have started playing Walking Football? If so what is different?
No, I still eat carefully so not that I’ve noticed.
Do you feel fitter and healthier since you have started playing Walking Football and if please describe how?
Yes I am just more energetic. I’m always doing something but I just love the training and playing. It’s like a new lease of life.
Can you describe any injuries you have suffered when playing Walking Football and can you let the readers know how they were caused?
I’ve torn one of my adductor muscles at the top of my right leg which stopped me playing for about 8 weeks. I think this was due to not stretching properly before a league game. My right knee gives me a bit of pain sometimes but its fine after a bag of ice.
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?
Not on a Monday but on a Wednesday there is a first aid kit and there is a defibrillator in the main sports centre.
Has your social life changed since you started playing, and if so in what way?
Yes, I now have a much bigger circle of friends. We arrange social gatherings etc.
Does your club hold any social or charity events connected with Walking Football and if so what were they?
We have social get togethers, club curry night etc.
If you could sum up the benefits or enjoyment Walking Football brings you with a single quote, what would that quote be?
If somebody had told me 20 years ago that at the age of 60 I would be playing competitive football. I would have laughed at them. Here I am living the dream with a gang of new friends.
What are your best and worst memories of playing Walking Football?
Best is obviously winning a competition or league. Competing is great but competing and winning is better. Worst is injury or bad tackles by idiots.
How else has playing Walking Football affected your life?
My family love the fact that I’m still playing and fully support me. New friend and new team mates create a new experience.
What do you like most about Walking Football?
All of it.
What do you like least about Walking Football?
Idiots that like to kick. Some get a buzz out of confrontation!
What are your goals for the future when playing Walking Football?
Play good football for as long as I can with good health.
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?
All of the guys playing walking football started exactly the same. I did. I saw the TV ad, went onto the internet to find a local club. Made the call and I was made most welcome by all the guys at my first training session. Never looked back.
What do your friends and family think about you playing a sport again at your age?
My family love the fact that I’m still playing and fully support me. New friend and new team mates create a new experience.
What are the costs involved in order for you to play Walking Football for foot ware, kit and weekly session and league fees?
Minimal really.
Proper footwear is the most expensive. Kit for games is supplied and nobody really cares what you wear for training. Subs are £3.00 for an hours fitness. Cheap at half the price!
Author: The Walking Football
You create the memories; we help you relive them forever!
