‘Walking Football’ in Laudium, started in November 2020 with 12 participants. As of today, the number of participants has increased to 64 and is growing in popularity. Initially the game was played once a week on a Sunday morning. Currently the game is being played three times a week. This is done to accommodate other enthusiasts who are unable to participate in the Sunday morning session.
Whilst many former footballers may be unable to take part in the traditional sport, due to age, injury, illness, frustration or simply a lack of interest, ‘Walking Football’ gives you an opportunity to participate in the sport and is open to all, but particularly to those over the age of 50. What is now becoming noticeable is that the game is also attracting competitors under the age of 50.
The rules of the game are simple:
· Teams comprise of 5,6, or 7 a side.
· No running with or without the ball.
· Tackling & physical contact is forbidden.
· Ball must be played below the knee height.
· Goalkeepers are not allowed to come out of the designated area.
· Players are not allowed in the goalkeeper’s area.
· Kick- ins replace throw -ins.
· No offside’s.
· Free kicks are indirect.
· Penalty kicks taken with one-step rule.
· No squealing, swearing or any form of abusive conduct.
Participants have noticed some health benefits of ‘Walking Football’, particularly in the older age group. These benefits include, inter-alia, reduced stress levels, improved blood sugar levels, reduced cholesterol and hypertension levels, as well as overall improvement in physical fitness.
Because the games are played on a non-competitive and on a ‘have fun’ basis, there is no need for aggression, anxiety or depression. Our games ensure social cohesion, fun, respect, patience, laughter, mental stability, and above all well-being and enjoyment. ‘Walking Football’ provides the participants as well as the community at large with the opportunity to get involved in something they really enjoy, while meeting new people, creating long-term relationships with like-minded others and boosting quality of life. If you quit playing and you remember how much fun you had in your younger days, it is never too late to get back into the game.
As age grows, so does Laudium’s ‘Walking Football’. Age has become just a number and ‘Walking Football’ is here to stay. Should you require any information regarding Laudium’s ‘Walking Football’ (LWF), please contact Ihsaan “Ikes” Jaffer or Omar “Oomza” Peera.
-Submitted by: Omar “Oomza” Peera.
