Wobbly Walking Football

The Pitch

Problem statement

A surge in cases of mental health issues, physical disabilities (often brought on by age related health issues) and anxiety issues brought on by the pandemic have meant that we have demand for a special social/recreational physical activity that is good for both the body and the mind, in so many ways.

Solution

Our all age walking football sessions would be open to anyone: any age, any gender and any ability. However our Wobbly Walking Futsal sessions will offer a very much slower paced game for those with a temporary or permanent impairement, either physical or mental. The sessions run with enhanced respect game rules: no overhead height and considerate shooting (power and height). Wobbly players must of course be physically capable and medically safe but will generally be older (age 60+).

Why are we best placed to deliver?

We have secured use of the sports hall at the Victory Sports Ground in Bury St Edmunds. We would apply an experienced and qualified coach / social lead to this weekly activity.

Focus Areas

Delivery plan

Budget breakdown

Beneficiaries

24 people

Expected impact

The key outcomes would be to have formed a community and fellowship through playing fun football - improving health and wellbeing. The project would be for and benefit all ages; ladies and gents; beginners to veterans. At the same time the project would provide access to all sorts of external support groups via our coach who would have a caring ear for issues outside sport and football. Reasons to be playing… Start playing football again Having fun Bringing back memories Stay feeling young Trying something different/new Improve/maintain mental health Improve/maintain physical health and fitness Advised to start playing by a healthcare professional Improving your mood/sense of wellbeing Meeting new people/make new friends Being part of a team Having time to yourself Boosting confidence Having a sense of achievement Being good at something Developing skills

Track record

Established in 2012 our the Sporting Trust is a not-for-profit social enterprise that delivers and supports various football based services, programmes and events to children and adults in the local community. The Trust works in synergy with its partner organisation Sporting 87 Football Club to provide a ‘total football community service’. Together with Sporting 87 we are England Football Accredited; a partnership that has won the Suffolk FA award for best Community Charter Standard Organisation three times. Trust activities are categorised under four modes of provision: Academy, Community, Schools Support and Holiday Clubs. The Trust now has over 50 regular players in our weekly walking football sessions, and would like to expand it's provision to those most in need.