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 at school and then in my late teens for my village team. Saturday work took over. I played again on Sundays for a couple of years, but had not kicked a ball in anger since I was 26. Again, weekend work got in the way.
How long have you played Walking Football?
3 years.
Why did you first get involved with Walking Football?
I always enjoyed playing, wanted to get fitter but don’t like going to the gym! I saw a taster session advertised on social media and decided to go along. I absolutely loved it.
How many times a week do you take part in Walking Football sessions?
Twice, when work permits.
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?
Our group is over 50. We have recently introduced ladies and their age limit is 35.
When you play a game of Walking Football do you play to the WFA, WFS or FA rules and why did your club decide to follow those rules of the game?
We play a mix of rules. I’m not that sure of the differences without checking.
Describe the buzz you get having the opportunity to play a team sport again at your age?
I love it. It makes me feel a lot younger than I am.
What one or two things do you currently do in your training sessions that you think are important to avoid injury?
We are lucky enough to have a professional coach and ex pro, Russell Lewis at our Saturday session, which is run by the Northampton Town Community Trust. He is excellent at making sure we do all our warm ups and stretches. Some of our members are also qualified coaches, so they do similar routines.
Have you played competitive Walking Football, if so which tournaments / leagues?
We’ve played in regional tournaments and festivals, plus took part in the FA People’s Cup. We don’t play in a league at the moment.
Has your diet changed since you have started playing Walking Football? If so what is different?
No.
Do you feel fitter and healthier since you have started playing Walking Football and if please describe how?
I’ve found that I can keep weight off more easily since I started and generally feel fitter.
Can you describe any injuries you have suffered when playing Walking Football and can you let the readers know how they were caused?
My only injury has been a snapped finger ligament caused during a spell in goal. I saved the shot though! I still wear a finger splint when I play in goal, as I had a recurrence.
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?
Yes. We have a number of first aiders so there is always one available. We raised funds to buy our own club defibrillator last year. Fortunately, it has not been used yet.
Has your social life changed since you started playing, and if so in what way?
Very much so. I have a new circle of friends and we socialise quite a bit.
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 have done some social fundraisers and we are taking part in a charity friendly game next week.
If you could sum up the benefits or enjoyment Walking Football brings you with a single quote, what would that quote be?
Age is just a number.
What are your best and worst memories of playing Walking Football?
My best memory is my club winning the first Northants County Cup.
My worst is witnessing over aggression at a tournaments.
How else has playing Walking Football affected your life?
Improved my health, well being and social life.
What do you like most about Walking Football?
Scoring goals.
What do you like least about Walking Football?
Over competitiveness from players who should know better, and tackling from behind.
Do you find it difficult NOT to run and what advice could you give someone in how to remain at walking pace?
Noted as one of our club’s fastest players, I am probably not best qualified to answer……..
What are your goals for the future when playing Walking Football?
I would like to see my club be part of a Northamptonshire League, and also for the club to get a ladies team going.
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?
Come and watch us first, and then try one of our free introductory sessions.
What do your friends and family think about you playing a sport again at your age?
I get a lot of encouragement from my family, and some football equipment at Xmas.
What are the costs involved in order for you to play Walking Football for foot ware, kit and weekly session fees?
We have an annual fee of £10 and subs of £3 per session.
Author: The Walking Football
You create the memories; we help you relive them forever!
