Community Foundation Launch Over 50s Walking Football

Berwick Rangers Community Foundation successfully launched their latest initiative on Monday evening, with the first ever over 50’s ‘Gers foundation Walking Football match taking place at Longridge Towers.

The Community Foundation’s Walking Football matches will take place weekly at Longridge Towers.

The hour-long sessions will continue to take place every Monday at Longridge’s indoor sports hall from 6:00-7:00pm at the cost of £4, with all 50 plus’ welcome!

The latest Sport England Active People survey found that only as much as 37% of all residents in the TD15 area aged 16 or above participate in sport for 30 minutes once per week.

In fact, it was found that under 7% of Northumberland residents participate in football at all, despite over 54% of participants admitting they’d like to play a more active part in sports.

In October 2009, it was found that almost 64% of particpants aged 45-54 would have liked to play more sport, a figure which on last count (2013) had declined to slightly over 44% – largely in part due to a lack of viable sporting options for those of a more senior age!

However, the Foundation’s latest initiative looks to address that issue by providing a sport which focuses on enjoyment in order to appeal the masses.

Community Foundation coach Matty Moor hailed the launch night, explaining the fun had by all as the key to its success.

“It was great fun. The ‘walking’ element allows for the creation of a level playing field for all involved. The beauty of that is that it helps to ensure a competitive environment for all players.

“But there’s no doubt it’s very testing, too. You must constantly think about your movement to try stay one step ahead of the game. There’s an arguement that by slowing things down, it introduces a more tactical battle.

“And of course, because of your constant movent, it makes for a great cardiovascular workout, too!”