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’ve played many sports in the past: rugby, volleyball, badminton, swimming, most recently tennis and cricket, and I’ve always been a keen cyclist. I had to stop playing tennis because of a knee injury about three years ago, and haven’t played sport since then until I took up Walking Football. I’ve not played football since college.
How long have you played Walking Football?
Three months.
Why did you first get involved with Walking Football?
I met a friend who had been ill. He looked in great shape and attributed this to Walking Football, so I thought I’d give it a go. There were established sessions at Scarborough Rugby Club which is a ten minute cycle away. I had a chat with Colin who runs the sessions, had a trial session which was great and joined the club. It was a complete no-brainer.
How many times a week do you take part in Walking Football sessions?
Twice.
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?
Male only from 55 upwards, our oldest player is 74 (I think!). The club also has walking rugby, walking footy for people with Parkinson’s and women’s walking football and netball. They sometimes have mixed male/female sessions. I should also mention we play indoors in a large sports hall.
Describe the buzz you get having the opportunity to play a team sport again at your age?
I enjoy the mental challenge as much as the physical. No one ever taught me to play football, I just picked it up as a kid, so playing with people who have, in some cases played all their lives, I try to learn from them. I enjoy watching the others play as much as playing myself. They are also a great bunch and have been, in the main, encouraging.
What one or two things do you currently do in your training sessions that you think are important to avoid injury?
We do a thorough stretching warm-up together, but I also do my own stretches before I cycle to the session. By the time I arrive I am warmed-up. I also get to warm down cycling home.
Have you played competitive Walking Football, if so which tournaments / leagues?
No, but the club has.
Has your diet changed since you have started playing Walking Football? If so what is different?
No, I eat pretty healthily and have been a vegetarian for forty years.
Do you feel fitter and healthier since you have started playing Walking Football and if please describe how?
Yes, I sleep better on the days when I have a session. My leg muscles are stronger, and my stamina is improving. I’m very right-sided so I’m trying to strengthen my left foot – it’s hard but I’m getting there.
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 bruised my ribs falling whilst in goal, I slipped on a mat. I also sustained a head injury. A point blank shot hit me on the side of the head, this exacerbated floaters which I already had in my left eye.
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?
The Rugby Club Staff are fully trained and are yards away. We recently had a session with a paramedic who plays for the club, on CPR and how to use a defibrillator.
Has your social life changed since you started playing, and if so in what way?
No. I’m pretty busy, and still work part-time. I’m also in the process of moving house. Unfortunately, I’ve not had time to do more than have the occasional brew after the sessions, which is a great way to get to know everyone. The group is very sociable, and I would join in more if I wasn’t about to move on.
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, they do all sorts of extra activities like a tennis tournament, cricket (neither of which I could attend), Christmas meal, a trip to Portugal is being arranged in the New Year.
If you could sum up the benefits or enjoyment Walking Football brings you with a single quote, what would that quote be?
Experience the Beautiful Game, only slower.
What are your best and worst memories of playing Walking Football?
I only have good memories.
How else has playing Walking Football affected your life?
It makes me feel younger.
What do you like most about Walking Football?
Scoring goals.
What do you like least about Walking Football?
Cycling in the rain.
Do you find it difficult NOT to run and what advice could you give someone in how to remain at walking pace?
Everyone does. Keep reminding yourself to slow down, hold up the ball and make a good pass.
What are your goals for the future when playing Walking Football?
Scoring more goals and finding a new club when I move which is as good as my current one.
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?
Go along and watch first. Get a decent pair of football trainers before you start or you could end up slipping and hurting yourself.
What do your friends and family think about you playing a sport again at your age?
Very positive, except some of my mates who think it’s too easy, but have never seen it and won’t have a go.
What are the costs involved in order for you to play Walking Football for foot ware, kit and weekly session fees?
Trainers £30, kit £0 (I had t-shirt and shorts already, bibs are supplied), membership costs £21.50 per month, and I could go four times per week. As I go twice it costs around £2,50 per two hour session. Bargain!
Anything else you’d like to share?
Don’t sit at home watching ‘Cash in the Attic’ join a Walking Football Club!
Author: The Walking Football
You create the memories; we help you relive them forever!
