The Football Association (FA) is facing calls to expand beginner-friendly walking football sessions across England, with advocates highlighting a significant gap in accessible opportunities for new players. Currently, only 150 registered sessions exist nationwide, leaving thousands of potential participants without local access to the low-impact sport designed for older adults and those returning from injury.
The demand for beginner sessions has surged following a 2023 study by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which found that walking football can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 30% among middle-aged and older adults. Campaigners argue that the FA’s current provision fails to meet this growing need, particularly in rural areas where transport options are limited. The calls come ahead of the FA’s annual strategy review, set for publication in March 2024.
Football Association Faces Pressure to Increase Beginner Walking Football Sessions
The Football Association (FA) is under growing pressure to expand beginner-friendly walking football sessions across the country. Campaigners argue that the current lack of accessible sessions is preventing older adults from engaging with the sport.
Walking football, a slower-paced version of the game designed for older players, has gained popularity in recent years. However, many potential participants struggle to find suitable beginner sessions in their local areas. According to a recent survey, 68% of adults over 50 expressed interest in trying walking football, but only 32% could locate nearby beginner sessions.
The FA has acknowledged the demand but insists that the growth of walking football depends on local clubs and volunteers. “We encourage more clubs to set up walking football opportunities,” said an FA spokesperson. “However, the responsibility ultimately lies with local communities to drive this initiative forward.”
Critics argue that the FA could do more to support and promote beginner sessions. They point to the success of initiatives in other sports, such as tennis and badminton, which offer structured pathways for beginners. “The FA needs to take a more proactive role in expanding walking football,” said John Smith, a campaigner for senior sports initiatives. “This means providing more funding, resources, and guidance to local clubs.”
Without increased support, many older adults may continue to miss out on the health and social benefits of walking football. The FA faces mounting pressure to address this issue and make the sport more accessible to beginners.
Demand Grows for More Accessible Walking Football Opportunities
The Football Association (FA) faces growing pressure to expand beginner-friendly walking football sessions across the UK. Advocates highlight a significant gap in accessible opportunities for newcomers to the sport.
Walking football, designed for older adults and those returning to the game after injury, has seen a surge in popularity. However, many potential participants struggle to find suitable beginner sessions. The FA currently lists 1,200 walking football opportunities nationwide, but experts argue this is insufficient to meet demand.
A recent survey by the Walking Football Association revealed that 68% of beginners find it difficult to locate introductory sessions. The lack of beginner-friendly options acts as a barrier to entry for many.
Local clubs and community groups have called on the FA to invest more in grassroots initiatives. They suggest targeted funding and training for coaches to establish structured beginner programmes. The FA has acknowledged the issue but has not yet announced specific plans to address it.
In the meantime, some regions have taken matters into their own hands. The North West Walking Football League, for instance, has launched a pilot scheme offering free taster sessions. Early feedback indicates high interest and positive outcomes.
The FA’s response to these calls will be closely watched by the walking football community. With the sport’s popularity continuing to grow, the need for accessible beginner sessions becomes ever more pressing.
Experts Call for Expansion of Entry-Level Walking Football Programmes
The Football Association is facing calls to expand beginner-friendly walking football programmes across the country. Experts argue that current entry-level sessions are insufficient to meet growing demand, particularly among older adults looking to stay active.
Walking football, a slower-paced version of the game designed for older players, has gained popularity in recent years. The FA reports over 4,000 registered walking football teams nationwide. However, experts note a significant gap in beginner sessions, which act as a gateway for new players.
Dr. Emma Hartley, a sports scientist at Loughborough University, highlights the health benefits of walking football. “It’s a fantastic way for older adults to maintain fitness and social connections,” she says. Yet, she warns that the lack of beginner sessions creates a barrier for potential new players.
The FA currently offers walking football sessions in over 1,000 locations. But Dr. Hartley argues that this is not enough to cater to the diverse needs of beginners. She calls for a more structured approach to expand entry-level programmes.
Local football clubs have also expressed concerns about the lack of beginner sessions. Many clubs report high interest but limited resources to accommodate new players. The FA has acknowledged the issue and is reportedly exploring ways to address the shortage.
Industry experts suggest that expanding beginner sessions could significantly boost participation rates. They recommend targeted marketing campaigns and increased funding for local clubs. The FA has not yet responded to requests for comment on the proposed expansion.
Walking Football Sessions Expansion Urged to Encourage New Participants
The Football Association faces calls to expand beginner-friendly walking football sessions to attract new participants. Currently, only 30% of clubs offer structured sessions for beginners, according to a recent survey by the Walking Football Federation.
The federation’s chairman, David Savage, highlighted the disparity at a press conference last week. “We’re seeing incredible growth in walking football, but many potential players are put off by the lack of beginner sessions,” he said. Savage urged the FA to address this gap to foster inclusivity.
Walking football, designed for players aged 50 and above, has gained popularity due to its health benefits and social aspects. However, the lack of beginner sessions may deter newcomers from joining. The federation’s survey revealed that 60% of non-players cited a fear of joining advanced sessions as a barrier.
The FA has acknowledged the issue and is considering a national initiative to promote beginner sessions. A spokesperson stated that they are working with local clubs to increase accessibility. “We’re committed to making walking football available to everyone,” the spokesperson said.
In the meantime, some clubs have taken independent action. For instance, Manchester United’s walking football group has introduced monthly beginner sessions. The sessions have seen a 40% increase in new participants since their launch in January.
The federation hopes that increased beginner sessions will lead to a more diverse and inclusive walking football community. Savage emphasised the importance of providing a welcoming environment for all. “Football is for everyone, regardless of age or skill level,” he concluded.
Football Association Urged to Address Lack of Beginner-Friendly Sessions
The Football Association (FA) is facing calls to address a significant gap in beginner-friendly walking football sessions across the country. With walking football’s popularity surging, particularly among older adults, many potential participants struggle to find suitable introductory sessions.
Current data reveals only 32% of FA-affiliated walking football leagues offer structured beginner sessions. This leaves thousands of would-be players without access to the gentle, low-impact version of the game designed for newcomers and those returning after injury or illness.
The Walking Football Association (WFA) has been vocal in its criticism of the situation. “We’re seeing record numbers of people interested in trying walking football, but the lack of beginner sessions is a real barrier,” said WFA spokesperson David Carter last week.
The FA acknowledges the issue but points to recent initiatives aimed at increasing provision. A £1 million investment in grassroots football last year included funding for walking football development officers in every region.
However, critics argue more needs to be done to ensure consistent provision nationwide. Local community groups report that many interested individuals, particularly women and those over 65, are deterred by the lack of clear entry points into the sport.
The FA’s Chief Executive, Mark Bullingham, stated in a recent interview that they are working with partners to address these concerns. “We’re committed to making football accessible to everyone,” he said, “and that includes ensuring walking football opportunities are available at all levels.”
With an ageing population and growing awareness of the health benefits of gentle exercise, the demand for beginner walking football sessions shows no signs of abating. The pressure is now on the FA to deliver solutions that meet this growing need.
The Football Association has received widespread support for its proposal to expand beginner walking football sessions across the country. With over 50,000 participants already engaged, the initiative aims to promote physical activity among older adults and those new to the sport. Local councils and community groups have expressed interest in hosting more sessions, pending funding approval. The FA expects to announce further details in the coming months, with trials set to begin in early 2025. This expansion aligns with broader public health goals to increase physical activity levels among aging populations.
