A walking football group is bringing fitness, friendship, and fun to older adults who thought their playing days were behind them.

Based at Malvern Town FC, the sessions have been running since April and are open to anyone aged 50 and over, regardless of ability or experience.

They regularly attract more than 20 participants each week, with the oldest player currently aged 86.

Dave Baker, founder of the walking football group, said: “It has been a pleasure to be part of a group that approaches the game not only in a competitive nature, but in the true spirit of the game.

“Our aim is to make it enjoyable for all abilities – a chance to get a little fitter, whilst meeting new people of a similar age and ultimately enjoy playing football again.

“We have members who are recovering from illness, old football niggles and dodgy knees and joints, who never thought that they would kick a ball again, but now they are turning up each week and loving every minute of it.

“It has allowed us to reach out to another demographic within our local community and it’s great to see the pitch being used simultaneously by our Walking Football team, the Malvern Town first-team and youngsters taking their first steps into the beautiful game.”

A walking football group is bringing fitness, friendship, and fun to older adults who thought their playing days were behind them.
Based at Malvern Town FC, the sessions have been running since April and are open to anyone aged 50 and over, regardless of ability or experience.
They regularly attract more than 20 participants each week, with the oldest player currently aged 86. — Pic credit: Andy Poole

Sessions take place at Langland Stadium every Wednesday from 8.30pm to 9.30pm and cost £5 per session.

Rob Norton, a regular participant who has played walking football since 2022, said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the sessions.

“The pitch and facilities are fantastic and the Malvern Hills always makes a lovely backdrop.

“The quality of players here also makes the games enjoyable and encourages other members.

“There’s great camaraderie and banter, with some of the group having played together since their younger days.”

The inclusive sessions have welcomed players from all backgrounds, including complete football newcomers.

One member, affectionately known as Big Phil, said: “I’ve never played in any real football team before, let alone Walking Football, having always favoured rugby, but I am thoroughly enjoying it.

“It’s been a learning curve for me, but everyone has been understanding and forgiving (I hope!).

“The social side, banter and exercise are huge benefits.”

Even those with experience in the game are finding new value in the format.

Joe Maggs, club chaplain at Malvern Town FC, said: “I’d give the enjoyment factor eight out of 10, only because I still play ‘running’ football and that is 10.

“I’m still getting my head around the Walking Football rules, but it’s nice to be able to do it amongst such a great bunch, who play the game with a smile on their faces.”

Newcomers are always welcome to join.

The newest member, Alex Wilson, said: “I am so glad I came along here.

“I have been made to feel so welcome by Dave and the players.

“It’s been some time since I have played football of any kind, so to come here was a big thing for me and I will certainly be coming back on a regular basis from now on.”

For more information or to register, email djbakes50@gmail.com

Source: https://www.malverngazette.co.uk/sport/26518122.malvern-walking-football-welcomes-players-aged-50/