Walking football at Collingham FC: Enjoyable for those who prefer a gentler pace

Footballers of all ages and ability are being encouraged to take part in a different form of the game in which it is against the rules to run.

Walking football sessions are being offered at Collingham FC in a bid to get more people in the community using the club’s new artificial pitch, as well as giving the elderly or those less physically able the chance to play.

Walking football differs from the usual rules only in that players are not allowed to run, and must only walk.

The first session of walking football at Collingham saw youth, senior and veteran footballers take part in a 30-minute match.

Games can be adapted in length and the size of the pitch can be altered, depending on how many players take part.

A former Collingham player, Mr Pat Douglas, 63, who organised the first session, said it was a way for him to play again without further damaging the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee.

The injury forced him to quit 11 years ago after a career that included playing professionally for Shrewsbury Town for three seasons in the 1960s.

Mr Douglas said he also wanted to work with the health sector to offer the new form of activity, which he thought could help patients’ treatment or rehabilitation.

"Walking football is a game anyone can play. You don’t have to be young or fit and everyone can take part,” he said.

"It can be played by older people who used to play football, or anyone suffering from an injury that limits their running, or someone who just enjoys walking.

"I would like to get involved with the health sector because, for example, walking football could be part of the treatment for someone who suffers from depression.

“It might be good for them to get out and try a different activity.’’

Mr Douglas said Collingham had a high number of OAPs and he hoped to get many local residents to play.

The only equipment required is sports kit, shin pads and suitable shoes to play on the artificial grass.

The pitch, situated just behind the main ground, opened last month.

Collingham FC chairman Mr Mick Goodwin, who took part in the first session, said: ‘’It was good fun.

‘’You don’t have to be an athlete to play. It’s good exercise.

‘’You are using different muscles and more than you normally would.

“Walking football is sometimes used in the professional game during training because it improves players’ positional play and passing accuracy.’’

More information on the sessions are available from Mr Douglas on 07947 977813.