New Competition Gets Older Footballers to Walk On
Older footballers from Carlisle United are getting another chance of glory thanks to a new national walking Football Competition from the Football League Trust’s which kicks off in Blackpool this week.Walking Football is a slow-paced version of the beautiful game aimed specifically at the over 50’s. The competition is backed by football legend, Jimmy Armfield, who comments: “As you get older the opportunity to participate in team sports lessen – ironically at the age when you most need to keep active.
"Walking Football is designed to help people keep an active lifestyle despite their age, as well as getting those back playing football who had to stop due to injuries. Simply playing one hour a week for three months enables players to cover 30 miles and burn 4,200 calories!”
The tournament features over 60 teams who, uniquely, will represent their local Football League Club and play in their official colours. The competition is comprised of five regional events, with the top two in each region qualifying for the finals which will be played at The FA’s prestigious St George’s Park.
Dean Grice from the Football League Trust said: “Those dreams you have as a child of playing for your local team never truly go away, so the competition gives players the chance to represent their local club.
"We are also grateful to The FA for allowing us to use St George’s Park to provide our players with the experience of playing at a top class venue.
“We want this tournament to provide the opportunity for friendly competition and to promote the game which will hopefully result in more older people staying active.”
Teams taking part in tomorrow's North West competition are:
| Bury FC |
| Blackpool FC |
| Carlisle United FC |
| Crewe Alexandra FC |
| Fleetwood Town FC |
| Rochdale FC |
| Wigan Athletic FC |
Walking Football has grown massively over the last few years and as the name suggests it is non-contact and anyone that sprints, runs or jogs while the ball is in play will be penalised with a free-kick awarded to the other team.
We at Carlisle United Community Trust have players from all walks of life that take part in our weekly sessions. The benefits are seen not only in general fitness but socially as well.
Sessions take place in the Neil Centre on Tuesdays from 2pm - 3pm. Please contact John Halpin on 01228 554 169 for more information.