For Stockport County Community Trust’s walking football participants, the programme means a lot more than just a game.

Phillip, who turns 90 this year, has attended the programme since it started over seven years ago. Since then, he has attended weekly sessions to get out of the house, meet new people and stay active.

Despite facing some health challenges in the past few weeks, that didn’t stop Phillip from coming down to the recent walking football festival at Edgeley Park to support and cheer on his teammates.

Phillip said: “It’s not just about football. It’s about the socialising and friendships.

“After being ill, it’s reassuring to know that we all share similar problems, and by talking to each other, you feel better for it.”

Phillip, who turns 90 this year, has attended the programme since it started over seven years ago. Since then, he has attended weekly sessions to get out of the house, meet new people and stay active.
Despite facing some health challenges in the past few weeks, that didn’t stop Phillip from coming down to the recent walking football festival at Edgeley Park to support and cheer on his teammates.
Phillip said: “It’s not just about football. It’s about the socialising and friendships.
"After being ill, it’s reassuring to know that we all share similar problems, and by talking to each other, you feel better for it.” — Pic credit: Stockport County Community Trust

The walking football festival took place on Thursday 21st May at Edgeley Park and brought together men’s and women’s teams from across Stockport who played friendly matches on the pitch.

Stockport County’s walking football sessions are ideal for men and women aged 45+ who want to keep fit and have fun in a friendly, supportive and non-judgemental environment.

The sport offers many physical and mental health benefits, including better balance and posture and improved confidence and self-esteem.

Players who enjoy competitive football can partake in regular tournaments with other teams in the region.

Matti Oates, Disability Co-Ordinator at Stockport County, said: “Walking football is about far more than what happens on the pitch. For many of our participants, it offers friendship, support and a genuine sense of belonging.

“It’s wonderful to hear the positive impact the programme has had on Phillip’s wellbeing, and we hope to continue supporting our players both on and off the pitch for many years to come.”

Men’s and women’s walking football takes place on Thursdays at Pro Football Arena and Power League Stockport. To learn more about the programme or to register your interest, email communitytrust@stockportcounty.com

STOCKPORT WALKING FOOTBALL SESSIONS INFO: https://walkingfootball.com/walking-football/pro-football-arena/

Source: https://www.stockportcounty.com/news/2026/may/28/-it-s-not-just-football–it-s-friendship—phillip-s-story-highlights-the-impact-of-walking-football-/