Walking Football Championships at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex
December 1, 2017
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is delighted to support the first ever Walking Football Championships, a sporting initiative introduced by the Irish Football Association. Participants play in a similar structure to five-a-side football but are not allowed to run, jog or sprint on or off the ball.
Nine teams from across Northern Ireland, including teams from Belfast, Ards, Bangor and Lisburn participated in the prestigious tournament held at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex. The event, which involved men and women, consisted of two competitions for people aged 50+ and 60+.
Both competitions were tightly contested with the 50+ final finishing in an exciting penalty shootout. The result saw Ards 1 being crowned 50+ Walking Football Champions, while Ards 2 secured a 2nd place and Lisburn a well-deserved 3rd place.
In the 60+ competition, it was a close call between the finalists, with Bangor picking up the championship title. Lisburn added to their medal tally with Lisburn 1 achieving a tightly contested silver medal and Lisburn 2 securing bronze.
Chairman of the Leisure and Community Development Committee, Alderman James Tinsley said: “By 2052, 2 billion people, over 20% of the world’s population, will be over 60 years, therefore it is vital that people across all age spectrums are encouraged to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.
“The Council strives to offer a range of programmes and activities which will inspire older people to get active or continue playing sport. Walking football is just one of these activities which has grown in popularity as it provides people with a shared interest in football a platform to come together for a match and enjoy some fun.
“It was great to see so many teams taking part and enjoying the first Walking Football Championship. There were some tough matches played, which is testimony to the calibre of players and the success of the sport.
“I would like to thank the Lisburn team for their support in hosting the competition and all the other teams who travelled the distance to take part in what will be the first of many walking football tournaments.”
Walking Football sessions take place every Tuesday and Thursday at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex for anyone aged 50+. New members will be warmly welcomed to the team.
For further details please contact Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Sports Development Unit on 028 9250 9461 or email leisure.placement@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk