Walking Football Festival success

WALKING Football teams from Better leisure centres across South Oxfordshire, Vale of White Horse, West Oxfordshire and Reading, including Thame’s,  met at the White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre in Abingdon on Friday, April 28, for a Walking Football Festival that celebrated growing interest in the sport.

Nearly 40 players took part in the friendly competition, which consisted of six-a-side matches that were each 12 minutes long. The nature of the event meant that there were no winners or losers, rather it aimed to encourage participation and showcase the fun inclusive nature of the sport. However, everyone involved received a congratulatory medal for taking part.

The teams were Abingdon Almost Athletic, Thame Tigers, Windrush Wanderers and Rivermead Rapids. This was the first time that Thame Leisure Centre, Windrush Leisure Centre and Rivermead Leisure Complex had played friendly matches against teams from other areas.

Kevin Williams, General Manager at White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre, said:
“The festival has been a huge success. It’s a great way to introduce people to walking football, in a fun, non-pressured environment. We’ve seen a surge in interest in walking football over recent months. It’s a great way to stay actively involved in the game, without having to be particularly fit or risk injury. We’re already planning more of this type of event for the future.”

Players interested in the competitive side of the sport can now look forward to entering or just watching the Better Games Walking Football championship that takes place at White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre, on  Saturday, May 20, from 10am-4pm.

SOURCE: Contributed