Stroud Park Walking Football Club
Welcome to Stroud Park WFC. Looking for a fun and social way to stay active? Look no further than walking football. This modified version of football is perfect for older players, people with mobility issues, and anyone who wants to enjoy the beautiful game at a more relaxed pace.
The club is affiliated to the Walking Football Association with members benefiting from their comprehensive player insurance scheme.
Club Members have the opportunity to play competitive matches with other local teams and compete in our own Summer Tournament.
Introduction to Walking Football
What is Walking Football?
Walking football is a variation of football that is played at a slower pace. Players walk instead of run, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. It's also a great way to get some exercise and socialise with others.
Rules of Walking Football
Walking football has a few key differences from regular football. The main rules are that players must walk instead of run, only minimal contact allowed, and free kicks are indirect. This makes for a more relaxed and enjoyable game.
We play to the latest version of the WFA rules :-
https://thewfa.co.uk/laws-of-the-game/
Code of Conduct
We have developed this document with the help of other clubs to try to ensure that all games are played fairly and in the spirit of "Fun, Fitness & Friendship"
https://form.jotform.com/260683448581062
Session Times and Location
Please feel free to come along to watch any of our sessions and book a taster session at a future date. Or just pay at reception and join in. We recommend that newcomers attend a Wednesday morning session to start with as this is usually more suited to players new to Walking Football
Pay at the Centre Reception but please be at the Astroturf pitches 10 to 15 minutes before the session kick off time.
Monday
Weekly sessions are held every Monday from 10am to 11am on the Astroturf pitch at Stratford Park Leisure Centre, Stroud. The cost is £3.00 per person, payable at the centre reception. The centre café is open for refreshments after the session. The Monday morning session is run in collaboration with Stroud District Council and forms one of the council’s key objectives to promote health and wellbeing for everyone.
Wednesday
Sessions are held on the Astro pitch at Stratford Park Leisure Centre, Stroud from 9.15am to 10.15am. The session is relaxed and friendly and open to all. The cost is £3.00 per person, payable at the centre reception.
Thursday
Our Thursday evening sessions are 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm during the summer (outside on Astroturf) and 8.00 pm to 9.00 pm during the winter months (inside, in the Sports Hall) All at Stratford Park Leisure Centre. The group is comprised of male and female players mostly aged 50 and above, although younger players are welcome to attend.
If you are interested in any of the above sessions, please contact us.
Benefits of Walking Football
Improves Physical Health
Walking football provides a low-impact workout that can improve cardiovascular health, balance, and coordination.
Promotes Friendship
Walking football is a great way to meet new people and build friendships. It's also a fun and engaging way to socialise with others.
Boosts Mental Health
Playing sports has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve mood and self-esteem. Walking football is no exception.
Enjoy the game you love
If you're a football enthusiast, walking football allows you to continue playing the game you love, with modified rules that make it accessible for all ages.
Equipment Needed for Walking Football
Footwear
"Dimple" soled trainers (or moulded stud/Firm Ground boots) are best suited to the Astroturf surface at Stratford Park. Blades or full (Soft ground) studs must never be worn on astro turf as these can damage the surface or cause injury.
Indoor sessions (e.g Thursday evenings during winter) require soft soled trainers.
Shin Pads
Wearing shin guards helps to protect a player's shins and further cut down the risk of injury. They are usually compulsory for players taking part in tournaments and wearing shin pads is encouraged at other walking football sessions.
Comfortable Clothing
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that allows you to move freely. Reversible Blue /Green bibs costing £4.50 are available at sessions. It is recommended that all regular players buy a bib.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important so bring a water bottle with you to the game.
Tips and Techniques for Playing Walking Football
Passing the Ball
Use quick, accurate passes: Because you can't run, passing the ball quickly and accurately is essential to keep possession and create chances. Focus on making short, sharp passes to your teammates.
Keep Moving
Even though you can't run, it's important to keep moving to create space, find passing opportunities and be available for your teammates.
Communicate
Good communication is key in any team sport, but it's especially important in walking football. Talk to your teammates to coordinate your movements and improve your performance.
Stay Balanced
Balance is crucial in walking football, as you won't be able to use speed to recover from a loss of balance. Keep your feet close to the ground and take small, controlled steps to maintain your balance.