Football is a sport that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. However, for some people, the fast-paced, high-energy nature of traditional football can be intimidating or even physically challenging. That’s where walking football comes in. This unconventional sport, which is similar to traditional football but played at a walking pace, is gaining popularity across the globe. It’s a sport that can be played by anyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or football experience, and offers a wide range of benefits for both physical and mental health. Walking football is not just a fun way to stay active, it can also help to improve fitness, keep you socialised and positively affect overall well being.
Walking football originated in the UK in 2011 as a way for mature players to continue playing football without the physical demands of traditional football. The sport quickly gained popularity and spread to other countries, including Australia, with walking football leagues and tournaments now being played in all states.
Steven Dunwell, a now 73 year old walking football player who started out as a reluctant participant at the age 69, became hooked and ended up making it all the way to The Walking football World Cup in London 2019. He even scored the first goal for the Australian side. In our chat about how he caught the walking football bug, he relayed how he was a state league football player in the 70s and 80s. Later in life, he needed a double knee replacement and after 6 months of rehab was invited to do a cameo appearance at a walking event….and the rest was history. The nature of the sport allowed the old sporting rush he used to feel but without the high impact on his body. He loved it! His natural competitive spirit had to come out eventually and in combination with the huge social outlet he found on the field and off, he kept coming back for more. The health benefits were an added benefit as he keeps active and his joints passively mobile.
Stevens message to anyone intrigued by the idea of walking football is to “just give it a go”. A perfect opportunity arises in Wollongong on Saturday the 13th May. The competitive and social tournaments for womens over 40’s and mens over 50’s and 60’s will be held at The University of Wollongong sports hub and begins at 9:30am. If you are new to the game, a come and try session will be held prior to the competition at 8:45am. In true Aussie spirit, give it a crack and who knows, the bug might bite you too. It could be the exact activity or social solution you need.
Some action shots of men and women playing walking football.
Register through the link – https://footballsouthcoast.com/walkingfootball/
For more information contact – kg945@uowmail.edu.au
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