It is one o’clock on a bright November day and the Muga pitch at Vulcan Football Club is already bustling with shouts and laughter as a five a side game of football is in full flow.
It initially looks like another team training match, but closer inspection reveals they are a group of predominantly silver haired men enjoying the afternoon Vulcan walking football session.
The group was set up by Vulcan FC treasurer Dave Tomlinson six months ago.
Dave takes up the story:
“The committee wanted to ensure there's opportunities for all corners of the community to play accessible football - to get out, get fit and meet people.
We thought walking football might get some interest, so we used our website and social media to attract interest.
We didn't target a particular group, it had to be open to anyone interested – no matter their age, gender or ability.
We had enough interest to establish two sessions straight away, which showed there was a demand.
We've had participants from all walks of the community and of varying ages.
The sessions are male dominated, but we do have one female regular, more are always welcome!
We're particularly pleased with the feedback from players who have mental health challenges, hearing that it's given them an outlet and something to look forward to weekly.
It's really pleasing to know that it's having such a positive impact.”
Walking football has many proven health benefits, particularly for older people.
These include reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type two diabetes and strokes.
There are also many proven psychological and mental health advantages to playing the sport.
It can give often-isolated members of the community the chance to become involved in a sport that they enjoy, make new friends, and generally improve their quality of life.
The two Vulcan sessions are on Monday at 1pm and 7pm.
The 1pm session was primarily set up for those who have retired or are of a more mature age.
The 7pm session is a much more mixed age range.
The ages of the afternoon group range from twenty-two to sixty-nine.
Elder statesman of the group, Kenny, said,
“I really look forward to our Monday afternoon sessions.
There is a hardcore group who more or less come every week and lots of others who come now and again.
We have a good laugh, and it gets your heart pounding. And my wife’s happy to get me out from under her feet.”
Steve, sixty-eight, a retired Technical Manager added,
“It’s great being part of this group, with people from all different backgrounds and ages coming together to play the sport that they love.
I played Sunday league football for many years and when I saw the advert on the website, I thought it was a good opportunity to get more exercise and enjoy playing the beautiful game again.”
If you are interested in joining either of the Vulcan walking football sessions contact Dave Tomlinson via the website to register your interest:
