'At 65, playing Walking Football for Cork City brings me the same joy as a teenager'

As we live longer we are becoming more active in our autumn years. 

For many of us in our mid-50s and older, the need to exercise can become all-consuming. At 65, the inclination to have a football at my feet as I pounded my way around the track in Ballinagree was always there. 

The idea of reliving my past on the football pitch began to take shape in my mind. I often wondered as I ran or walked if there might be a veterans game I could join and be part of something special again. Despite many efforts, I came up empty-handed. 

Out of the blue during the Christmas period of 2023, I spotted an advertisement for Walking Football. I was not unfamiliar with the concept having previously read how it had become popular across Britain. So, with a sense of trepidation and a great deal of excitement, I answered the call for players and took my first steps into the world of Walking Football. At Bandon AFC, I was met by Dave Hill, whose infectious enthusiasm hooked me.

Soon, more like-minded enthusiastic sixty-somethings turned up and under the strident tones of Conor Fionn McKahey from Cork City FC we were out on the pitch. I was so surprised how easily it all came back to me, the twisting and turning with the ball at my feet. I was suddenly transported back in time to a glorious era in my life when playing football was paramount. It wasn’t long before we were into a small-sided game and within minutes I had scored. 

That feeling which I thought was long gone of finding the back of the net was resurrected. 

I felt as if I was 15 again and ready to make another mark in the game I've always loved. 

JOY

Here I am some 10 months on and still loving my now team-mates at Cork City. The rewards have been many. 

Some have been very personal like scoring the winning goal against Shamrock Rovers or a cracking opener in a win against Sligo Rovers. However, the biggest kick revolves around the friends I have made and the laughter and banter.

Walking Football for men and women over the age of 55 years is a new phenomenon and is now embraced by the whole football family and given its due recognition by FIFA and UEFA. The emphasis is on having fun and improving your fitness levels. 

You can be a social walking footballer just kicking about with no competitive edge but still enjoying the fun. You can be a competitive walking footballer like me loving every opportunity to match my skills against others in a controlled safe competitive game, hoping for another exhilarating moment as I find the back of the net.

There is a place for everyone in this new and wonderful version of the game we all love. Are you up for it?

Cork City FC Walking Football sessions are held at Ringmahon Rangers on Wednesdays, 3pm to 4pm, and at Bandon AFC on Fridays, 2pm to 3pm. Tea and coffee and a genial chat after each session. Everyone is welcome.