THE BEAUTIFUL game comes to Redditch later this month with the town’s first-ever Walking Football Tournament.
The event, in partnership with Redditch United, is designed to encourage socialising, meeting other teams and having some fun.
Walking football has gained immense popularity in recent years, with many different groups created across the borough.
The slower version of the sport is great for people who may have previously been unable to participate in the traditional version due to injury, age, or mobility constraints.
Other similar walking sports opportunities in Redditch include walking cricket, walking touch rugby, and soon-to-be-introduced walking netball.
Redditch Borough Council’s portfolio holder for leisure, Coun Joanne Beecham, said: “The Walking Football Tournament at Redditch United is a fantastic initiative that promotes health and exercise for all.
“We’ve seen a lot of clubs start up and they’ve all been very well-received, so to bring everyone together for a tournament is fantastic.
“Even if you aren’t part of one of the formal sessions, you can still put a team forward, perhaps for your business or friendship group, and just have a bit of fun and meet like-minded people.”
The tournament will be played in accordance with the rules of walking football, encouraging a slower pace of play and enabling participants to enjoy the sport while minimising the risk of injury.
The tournament will be held from 3pm to 5pm on Thursday, July 20 (registration from 2pm) at The Valley Stadium, home of Redditch United.
Interested clubs, organisations, businesses, and friendship groups are being encouraged to put forward seven-a-side teams for just £35 per team.
Council leader, Coun Matt Dormer, said: “This tournament illustrates our commitment to supporting recreational opportunities for all members of our community, regardless of age or ability.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone to take part in and I encourage as many people as possible to put forward a team – or at least to come along and cheer for the participants as they showcase their skills and demonstrate the true spirit of walking football.”
Visit redditchbc.gov.uk/walking-sports/walking-football-tournament-at-redditch-united for more information.
