The benefits include better mental health, better sleep quality and improved mobility
The Head of Football at a League of Ireland outfit, has outlined why his club are reaching out to the community and facilitating weekly, year-round, walking football sessions.
John Godkin, Head of Football Operations at Wexford FC, says that it is just one part of their “community development strategy” and part of a bigger picture which includes a Down Syndrome team and street football in underprivileged communities.
Low impact football
“I have seen players play into their 80s. Everything is exactly same apart from the running. A friend of mine actually pulled his hamstring playing it a few weeks back. The players that are playing it, love it.”
While it attracts a diverse group, the median age of players is between 55 and 75.
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“It provides an opportunity for them to stay in touch with the game and each other. It is very social. They meet once a week and might go for a beer after. They were at a tournament in Cork recently and had a great day.”
Back in 2023, the FA published a list, outlining 10 benefits of walking football.
In addition to it being a sport which is “low impact” and “suitable for everyone”, other benefits of the sport centred around improved mental health, better sleep and enhanced flexibility and mobility.
Wexford FC’s walking football team meet at Ferrycarrig Park on Mondays at 12pm and all are welcome.
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