Newtownards’ Scrabo Strollers have been lacing up at their local leisure centre to take part in weekly ‘Walking Football’ sessions with all involved reaping the benefits of physical activity, social interaction and ‘friendly’ competition.
Taking place on a Wednesday evening and a slower paced version of the revered game, the aim is to keep men and women aged over 50, active and involved in football.
With a passion for the game – and for keeping active, Keith Campbell described how he, “adores Walking Football.”
“I’m very passionate about it, Walking Football ticks all the boxes for me and it keeps me active physically and mentally. It is a bit of craic and it’s really the full package for me,” said Keith.
A Scrabo Stroller, Keith explained how taking part in the weekly activity, “Is so relaxed, it is so enjoyable and it takes the strain of everyday life away.”
Keith continued, “We are of an age group in life were we have had our ups and downs. With the Walking Football we can share those and it eases the burden as you are with people that know what you are talking about. “Mentally you are put in the right direction – this is an opportunity to still play the game, there are no big stars and it is a bit if fun. Once you see it in action – you’ll love it!”
Fellow Stroller Bob Hamilton echoed Keith’s passion for Walking Football.
“I just find it really good. I have quite a stressful job and so just being able to step away from that for an hour a week is really good for me from a mental health point of view and for kicking the ball about.
“It’s gets me into a completely different social context and it’s a chance to meet new guys and I’ve made a new set of friends.
“I saw a poster for joining in the leisure centre and came along. I would recommend it, absolutely. Some of the guys get so stressed out you’d think it was the Champions League Final,” laughed Bob.
South Eastern Trust’s Community Health Development’s Jayne McKillen added how the Walking Football sessions are a fantastic example of keeping physically and mentally fit with October marking Positive Ageing Month.
“With physical activity, we know there are massive benefits to our health, our stress levels and the risk of developing Type Two Diabetes is reduced by up to 40 per cent. Walking Football is a great example of taking part in an activity with a large group and it’s a really fun way to keep fit.”
Jayne continued, “As part of the Health Development Team at the South Eastern Trust, we would promote this group as a way for anyone to increase their fitness levels.”
For further information on Walking Football groups across the South Eastern Trust area contact Jayne McKillen at Jayne.McKillen@setrust.hscni.net