Touchlines Walking Football - A TWF Publication.

Kingston WFC vs. Corinthian-Casuals (70+ vs. 60+) Friendly
A friendly match between Kingston Walking Football Club (70+) and Corinthian-Casuals (60+) produced a thrilling 3–3 draw. Despite the age gap, Kingston’s experienced side fought back from two goals down, showing excellent composure and tactical nous. The match highlighted the inclusive and spirited nature of walking football, where age differences only add to the narrative.

Oxford United WFC – Blackpool Tournament (Over 50s)
Oxford United WFC took part in a recent Blackpool tournament in the Over 50s category. Facing tough opposition from across the UK, the team performed admirably, demonstrating strong teamwork and cohesive play. The club’s detailed match reports praised their consistent improvement and the tight-knit group spirit, even when results didn’t go their way.

Winchester WFC – Hampshire FA Serie A Winners
Winchester Walking FC secured the Serie A title at the Hampshire FA Walking Football Tournament held at the Stoneham Complex. The team played four matches, winning three and drawing one, and impressively kept a clean sheet throughout. The write-up praised their defensive coordination and precise finishing, noting a significant improvement from their previous outings.

"Stroll Don’t Run" Charity Tournament – Basildon Mind
Held at Billericay Town’s New Lodge, the “Stroll Don’t Run” walking football tournament raised funds and awareness for Basildon Mind. 13 teams participated in a day full of matches, laughter, and community engagement. The tournament celebrated the mental health benefits of walking football while fostering friendship and fundraising. Event organiser Colin Wade described it as “a brilliant way to keep active and support a great cause.”

Fulham FC Foundation – Women’s Walking Football Tournament
In November 2024, Fulham FC Foundation hosted its first Women’s Walking Football Tournament of the season, aimed at promoting the sport among women aged 40+. The event was a resounding success, with multiple teams enjoying competitive fixtures in a welcoming environment. The foundation emphasised inclusivity, fun, and healthy living, with many participants new to the game but eager to return.

At a Benfica Foundation session, José, who joined in 2016, summed it up: "We meet, we play, we laugh, and sometimes we go for lunch. It's a great way to keep moving and stay connected." Like many players, José first joined to improve his health but found the camaraderie just as important.
Regular physical activity like walking football helps reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and obesity. It also lifts the mood and clears the head — something Fernanda, a long-time player, knows well. "My mental health improved. I don't worry so much anymore. It just disappears," she says.

The social side is just as valuable. Players often make new friends, share stories, and build a strong sense of team spirit. It's a game that keeps you moving — but at your own pace, with no running or rough tackles.

That's what makes it so inclusive. Men and women of all fitness levels can join in safely, and the game's simplicity is part of its appeal. As Dr Kremlin Wickramasinghe from WHO/Europe puts it, "Walking football keeps the benefits of the game while making it safer and more accessible."

With the backdrop of sunny skies, Portugal's walking football scene has become a model for other countries. It proves that staying active in later life doesn't mean giving up the sport — it just means playing it a little differently.

And the appeal is spreading. "I've got a friend in Angola who's now trying to start a team," says Fernanda. "It's something people everywhere can enjoy."

The group linked up with other Parkinson's organisations, introducing them to walking football and the benefits the game has on people affected by Parkinson's. Focusing on football activities, the events started with an open day where anybody could come along and join in with the sessions that the England teams and coaches provided, with many visitors trying walking football for the first time.

A tournament followed with teams from both the USA and Colombia competing for the Copa Parkinson's. All of the games were played in a great spirit, and it was the two England teams who met in the final and contested a tight game which finished 1-0.

Stuart Carrington, England Parkinson's walking football manager and Liverpool County FA football development officer, said:

"The whole trip was a fantastic experience, and the hospitality that our hosts showed us was second to none.

We helped raise awareness of who we are and what we represent and also made new friendships that will last a lifetime.

We are so proud to have introduced walking football to our friends from across the pond, and I’m really proud of all my players and coaching staff for the hundred percent effort that they put in.”

The 68-year-old sports fan, from Leeds, grew up in Zambia, where his interest in team sports began.
When he was a young man Chella (pictured below) moved to the UK to study engineering at university.
He kept up his interest in football, playing through university social clubs and the local amateur Leeds Sunday Football League. Chella was so passionate about the game that when he was in his 40s, he even took over the running and management of one of the Leeds Sunday league teams for 12 years. Chella’s heart problems started a few years later. In July 2020 he was working in security services at a university when he had a heart attack.

In the run up he had felt dizzy on a few occasions. After one episode, he went to A&E to get checked out and was told he’d had a heart attack.

Chella had a stent fitted to reopen a blocked coronary artery.

"Afterwards I was more careful about what I did and more conscious of my health," he says. My recovery was slow. At first I could not walk far or do vigorous activity. I felt very frustrated not being able to play football, go running or do sessions at the gym – all things I like to do to maintain my physical and mental wellbeing and to meet other people.”

It was during his recovery that Chella heard about walking football. He joined a local club, and he has not looked back.

"Walking football is fantastic because there are protective measures and a slower pace," says Chella. "It’s a bit safer and gives you more encouragement and confidence to play." Chella says the walking version of the game suits him at his age as he no longer suffers from injuries, or constantly feels stiff from knocks and falls experienced during normal football. He adds that the other, older players share their health stories readily; so much so that he sometimes refers to their sessions, as ‘walking clinics’.

"For me it’s about meeting new people and learning from them," he says. "Sharing with them, enjoying ourselves, and growing in our personal development. I’m maintaining a certain level of physical activity which keeps me healthy and confident and has improved my wellbeing. I feel better about myself."

What to Expect

Intense Competition:
Our teams will face off against the best walking football teams from around the world, testing their skills, strategy, and teamwork in a series of thrilling matches.

Cultural Exchange:
The World Championships provide a unique opportunity for our players to engage in cultural exchange, building friendships and understanding with participants from different countries.

Pride and Representation:
Wearing the Walkaroos jersey, our players will carry the pride of Australia with them, showcasing our nation's commitment to inclusivity, health, and the love of sport.

Join Them on the Journey

The Walkaroos journey to the World Championships is a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and passion for walking football. They are proud to represent Australia on this international stage, bringing together players from diverse backgrounds and skill levels to compete at the highest level.
As they prepare for Malmö, they invite our community, supporters, and fans to join them on this incredible journey. Follow their progress, cheer for their teams, and share in the excitement as the Walkaroos aim for success on the world stage.
Stay tuned for updates, player profiles, and behind-the-scenes stories as we count down to the World Championships. Let's go Walkaroos!

Jack found space down the inside right - put the ball in and Callum fired just over after a goal mouth scramble. However, the Epsom United centre forward was strong and pacy - always giving Epsom a dangerous out ball option downwind. It took a great last minute sliding challenge from Dan on the edge of the six yard box to clear danger and Epsom forced a could of free kicks down the right which were curled in superbly and only glanced clear for corners by the KINGS defence. With Epsom keeping 7 men back and their centre-forward a handful KINGS needed to play the ball out via the full backs but opted too often for the long ball which came straight back. The Epsom No.9 finally broke clear and connected well but a brilliant diving save down to his right by Jack Archer in net kept it at 0-0. Half-time with KINGS needing to up the tempo and play more football.

With the wind at their backs KINGS exploded out of the blocks after the break and never looked back. A Euan throw from the right was flicked on by Hugo and Jamie blasted just wide. Oz played in Max whose cross-come-shot flew agonizingly just past the post but in front of Jack charging in. Epsom were playing quite a high line and Eaun played in Max again down the right. This time he opted for the cross leaving Archie with a simple tap in to break the dead-lock! 1-0! Jack played in Max again who rounded the keeper but hit the side netting. Then a short corner by Oz to Eaun was returned to the dancing winger who cut inside his man and floated a cross which went in off the far post for KINGS second.

KINGS continued to create chance after chance. A Max volley was brilliantly parried by the Epsom keeper crossed back in and headed just wide by Tom, on as sub. Oz smashed a left footer just wide and with KINGS now winning the ball directly from most goal kicks Max collected the ball - raced in on goal and coolly rounded the keeper for 3-0. With only few minutes remaining a good run from Jack down the left, along the touchline from the corner flag and into the six yard box was ended - when he was up ended - but the Kings had the advantage and Tom whacked it in.

KINGS were now in party mood and the mellow strains of "Give me an A... Give me an F...etc" wafting from the Banstead main stand were only interrupted by the final whistle. Dan and Luke were superb, an excellent save from Jack Archer kept KINGS in the game and Callum and Hugo put in good midfield performances but MOTM went to Max as KINGS secured their second cup of the season.

All Fogged Up...

Arsenal played a friendly against Dynamo Moscow in heavy fog in 1945 at White Hart Lane. Despite players begging for play to be suspended, the referee insisted the game continue.
The fog was so thick that the match descended into farce, with each team playing by their own rules, unable to see the full pitch.
At one point, Moscow made a substitution without taking a player off—leading many to believe they had as many as 15 players on the field.
Arsenal weren’t innocent either. One of their players who had been sent off earlier quietly snuck back onto the pitch and played the rest of the game.
To top it all off, the Arsenal goalkeeper knocked himself out cold by running into the goalpost he couldn’t see. A spectator reportedly took his place, and the match carried on.

Somebody Has to Miss Soon...

Let’s travel to Argentina’s Fourth Division in the 2009/10 season. Juventud Alianza were up against General Paz Juniors in a playoff tie that ended 3–3 on aggregate after two legs.
The match went to a penalty shootout. What happened next was record-breaking.
Juniors eventually won the shootout 21–20—the highest scoreline in penalty history.
The most incredible part? There was only one missed penalty—the final one, taken by Ruiz of Alianza, which was saved. The first 40 penalties were all converted.
Devastation for Alianza’s goalkeeper Gonzalez, who failed to stop a single one of the 21 shots fired at him.

A Minute's Silence... of Sorts

In 1993, HFS Loans League side Congleton held a minute's silence before a match to honour their oldest fan, who had reportedly passed away that week.
But halfway through the tribute, the fan walked into the stadium, very much alive and ready to watch the match.

Chris Nicholl’s Big Day Out

Aston Villa defender Chris Nicholl had a day to remember—or forget—on March 20, 1976. He scored four goals in a single game... but only two were for his own team.
Nicholl netted two own goals for Leicester City in what ended as a 2–2 draw. He’d open scoring for Leicester, equalise for Villa, then repeat the sequence in the second half.
“The third goal, Leicester's second, was a cracker,” he later recalled. “Best goal I ever scored—a diving header. No goalkeeper would have saved it.”
After the match, he asked the referee for the match ball. “No,” the ref replied. “It’s my last match—I’m keeping it.” No ball for Nicholl, despite his unusual hat trick.

Just Blow the Whistle!!

In a Danish league match, local side Ebeltoft were trailing Norager 4–3 as the final seconds ticked away. They surged forward for one last attack, as the referee Henning Erikstrup reached for his whistle.
But just as he went to blow it, his false teeth fell out. No sound came out. Play continued.
Ebeltoft scored to seemingly equalise 4–4 while the referee scrambled for his dentures.
When he’d finally reassembled himself, Erikstrup disallowed the goal and blew the final whistle—ending the match 4–3 in Norager’s favour.
Ebeltoft’s protest to the Danish FA was dismissed. The result stood.

The Importance of Exercise in Obesity Management

Lifestyle interventions—such as exercise and diet—are essential for managing obesity and related conditions. At its core, obesity results from an energy imbalance: consuming more energy than one expends. Regular physical activity helps tip the scale back toward weight maintenance or loss.

The benefits of exercise go beyond the scales. Reductions in visceral fat, lower cardiovascular risk, improved muscle mass, strength, and overall fitness are just a few. Exercise also improves mental health, sleep quality, and mood.

Key Barriers & Considerations for Exercising with Obesity

Before starting any exercise program, it's important to undergo a medical screening to identify any conditions that might affect your response to training. This step is especially important for adults with obesity. However, it shouldn’t discourage anyone—benefits far outweigh the risks for most people!

Start Low and Go Slow

This advice helps prevent burnout. Begin with low-intensity activities and gradually increase the frequency and duration over time.

Adapt and Adjust

Modify exercises as needed to reduce strain, especially if you have obesity-related conditions (e.g. arthritis). For example, cycling instead of running can reduce knee stress.

Stay Safe

Wear appropriate clothing and shoes, use safe equipment, and choose suitable environments for your fitness level.

Tips for Sustainable, Long-Term Lifestyle Change

Like any new habit, establishing an exercise routine can be challenging. Here are a few strategies to make physical activity stick:

Partner Up

Working out with a friend or family member can boost motivation and keep you accountable.

Try New Things

Walking isn’t your only option! Consider an exercise specialist, join a gym or group class, or explore community-based programs. Variety helps maintain interest and consistency.

Pencil It In

Use a calendar or planner to schedule workouts just like appointments. Seeing your progress in a log can also provide added motivation.

Have Fun

Enjoyment is key to sustainability. Choose activities that make you smile—because when it’s fun, you’ll keep coming back.

How an Exercise Physiologist Can Help

Seeing an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) can make a big difference. AEPs are trained professionals who can:

• Prescribe and deliver tailored exercise for obesity management
• Help set achievable exercise and lifestyle goals
• Provide ongoing guidance and encouragement
• Adapt programs to suit your needs and fitness level

Common treatments include:

• Radiation
• Chemotherapy
• Prostatectomy
• Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT – hormone treatment)

How Does Exercise Help with Prostate Cancer?

Exercise plays a vital role in maintaining overall health, especially in men undergoing prostate cancer treatment such as ADT. Androgens—male hormones like testosterone—support the growth of prostate cancer in its early stages. Therefore, early detection and treatment targeting androgens are critical.

Exercise also helps to manage side effects of Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT), which works by reducing the body’s production of male hormones. Side effects may include:

• Reduced bone mineral density
• Loss of muscle mass
• Increased fatigue
• Higher cholesterol levels
• Greater risk of depression and cognitive decline

What Type of Exercise Is Best?

Aerobic and resistance-based exercises (like walking, cycling, walking football, jumping, and lifting weights) are safe and beneficial. Unless advised otherwise, individuals should be encouraged to participate in their preferred activities.

However, those with severe osteoporosis or bone metastases may require a modified program to reduce fracture risk. Importantly, skeletal loading should not be excluded entirely, as this may accelerate bone loss.

Moderate-intensity exercise is generally recommended—enough to make you puff. What counts as moderate intensity will vary depending on fitness level and cancer-related symptoms. For some, slow walking may be enough; for others, more effort is needed. Beginners should start with low to moderate intensity and increase gradually. Regular exercisers can usually handle higher intensities if progression is managed carefully.

Alan did some digging. He learned that many symptoms of high blood sugar creep in quietly:

• - Fatigue, especially after eating
• - Frequent urination
• - Increased thirst
• - Blurry vision
• - Slow-healing wounds
• - Tingly feet or fingers

He had three of those already. The wake-up call had come not a moment too soon. What Could He Do? He made a list on the back of a cereal box:

• - Cut the sugar – That meant goodbye to jam on toast, orange juice "from concentrate," and biscuits with every cuppa.
• - Control the carbs – Bread, spuds, pasta — all needed to be scaled back or swapped for better options, like sourdough.
• - Move more – Not just walking to the shop. Real effort.

Alan thought about how his mum fed the family in the ’50s: simple, whole foods, three square meals a day, no endless snacking.

• - Breakfast: Eggs, grilled tomatoes, a slice of soda bread
• - Lunch: Cold chicken, leafy greens, and beetroot with a splash of vinegar
• - Dinner: Grilled fish, swede and carrots mashed with a knob of butter, and a few new potatoes
• - Snacks: None. Maybe a piece of cheddar or an apple if needed.

No more takeaways. No ultra-processed crisp packets. He started cooking again, like his mum did. Roast on Sunday. Leftovers on Monday. Oats for porridge. Butter instead of margarine. And most of all — he stopped fearing real food.

Alan didn’t hit the gym. Instead, he started walking after meals — 20 minutes around the block. On rainy days, he did incline walking on a second-hand treadmill.
He added light resistance bands and press-ups (from the counter at first). Twice a week, he tried "Tyson-style push-ups to music," his grandson showed him on YouTube. Sweat dripped, but something shifted. He began to feel awake.

Three months later, his GP looked up from the chart. "Well done, Alan. HbA1c’s down to 38. You’re out of the danger zone." Alan grinned and pulled a boiled egg from his pocket. "Told you I was going back to basics."
Pre-diabetes doesn’t scream — it whispers. Catch it early, and you can turn the tide:

• - Eat real food, not boxes of chemicals
• - Keep meals simple, like your gran used to
• - Move after meals, walk hills, lift your body
• - Ditch the sugar, don’t chase the spike

Like Alan learned, the solution isn’t found in pills. It’s found in the kitchen, your legs, and your will.

What Actually Works

• Sort your diet:
  You don’t need to be perfect, just smart. More wholegrain carbs (like brown rice, wholemeal bread), more veg, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Cut back on sugary stuff and ultra-processed foods. It’s about blood sugar stability — not starving yourself.
  Ten Tips for Healthy Eating – Diabetes UK
  
• Move your body:
  Walking. Swimming. Gardening. Whatever works. Regular activity helps your body use insulin properly, brings weight down, and boosts mental health.
  Exercise for diabetes
  
  
• Keep your weight in check:
  Not everyone with prediabetes is overweight — but if you are, losing even a small amount (5–10%) can slash your risk of full-blown type 2. It’s one of the most effective things you can do.
  
  
• Know your numbers:
  Check your blood sugar if your GP recommends it. Track trends. If you’re borderline or at risk, staying informed gives you a head start.
  
  
• Get support:
  This stuff isn't easier when you’re doing it alone. Your GP, a diabetes nurse, or even a local group can make a big difference. Ask questions. Take notes. Use them.
  
  
• Tackle stress:
  Stress affects your blood sugar. Find what helps you switch off. Could be walking, music, yoga — whatever helps you not feel wound up all the time.
  
  
• Know your risk early:
  If you’re over 40 (or younger with certain risk factors), take this short test — no needles, no hassle:
  Know Your Risk – Diabetes UK Risk Score Tool