Walking Football Kicks Off at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex
July 26, 2017
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is delighted to support Walking Football, a sporting initiative introduced by the Irish Football Association which enables people over 40 to continue to play the ‘Beautiful Game’.
Relatively new to Northern Ireland, walking football has inspired older players and those interested in the game to lace up their boots for a kick-about!
Walking Football has continued to grow in popularity and not only encourages people to get active but provides a social platform for people with similar interests to get together and have fun.
The Council’s Sports Development Unit has established a walking football group, the ‘Lisburn Ages’, and welcomes around 20 people, both men and ladies to The Football Factory at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex. Participants play in a similar structure to five-a-side football but are not allowed to run, jog or sprint either on or off the ball.
The ‘Lisburn Ages’ walking football group recently participated in the Walking Football National Championships, held at the National Football Stadium, Windsor Park, and competed in the over 50’s category, finishing a fantastic third.
Speaking about the newly established walking football group, Chairman of the Leisure and Community Development Committee, Alderman James Tinsley said: “Walking Football is a great concept to encourage both men and women over 40 to get involved in the beautiful game, meet new people and enjoy being active.
“I recently had the pleasure meeting members of the ‘Lisburn Ages’ walking football group and I was really inspired by their enthusiasm and commitment to develop the game. Many of the participants have experienced significant health and fitness improvements since the sessions started, which is tremendous to hear. The Council strives to provide activities and programmes across all age spectrums that encourages and promotes an active and healthy lifestyle.
“I would like to congratulate ‘Lisburn Ages’ on their success at the Walking Football National Championships and I hope that their success encourages others to get involved.”
Walking Football sessions take place every Tuesday from 10.30am to 11.30am at The Football Factory, Lagan Valley LeisurePlex at a cost of £1.00pp.
For further details please contact Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Sports Development Unit on 028 9250 9461 or email leisure.placement@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk
