Our Walking Football Club continues to grow, and we now have nearly 130 men and women playing on a regular basis, either competitively for our teams, or taking part in the four weekly sessions that we run.

Our six competitive teams continue to be successful, with our Over 50’s qualifying for the prestigious WFA National Cup Finals being held in Nottingham in early September, and our 50’s and 60’s reaching the Regional Finals of the FA Walking Football Cup. Our Men’s teams will be representing the Club in the Gloucester, Clevedon, Somerset and Birmingham Leagues this coming season. Our Ladies team have played a series of Friendly matches over the summer, and continue to look for opposition to increase their game time and experience.

We wish them all good luck.

Whilst Walking Football was originally established for those over 50, the sport is now seeing younger players taking part, either as part of a sporting rehab, injury or illness stopping them playing conventional football, or just wanting to play the game at a slower pace. As a result, there has been a growth in under 50’s playing over the last few years. We are no different, and are now looking to create an Over 40’s team, initially to play friendly games, but ultimately to start entering local cup and league competitions.

However, it is not just about playing competitively. Walking football is generally recommended by the NHS as a form of exercise, particularly for older adults. It is recognized for its numerous physical and mental health benefits, and is seen as a way to stay active and social, while minimizing the risk of injury. Some NHS organisations and GPs actively promote the sport for the health benefits that it can bring.

If you are interested in playing Walking Football, whether it be competitively, or for health and/or social benefits, and want further information, please contact walking@wsmafc.co.uk.