AFC SUDBURY | WALK THIS WAY

Walking Football going from strength-to-strength

The provision of Walking Football at AFC Sudbury is going from strength-to-strength.

Participation at the weekly Tuesday sessions is increasing all of the time and now it forms a key part of the Pitching In Southern League Premier Central club’s community outreach.

“Our club is constantly reaching out to all members of local community,” Chief Executive, Patrick Bell, told the East Anglian Daily Times. “Inspired by our shared love of football, we endeavour to empower everyone in the community in and around the town of Sudbury to develop their physical fitness and mental wellbeing and this is one of the great ways in which we are able to do this.”

Graham Coleman, Head Organiser of the AFC Sudbury Walking Football team added: “The benefits of playing, I believe, are immeasurable. Not only is it good exercise, it’s also the social-interaction with like-minded people.

“It’s good for your mental health and there is the opportunity to develop new friendships.

“The focus of Walking Football is fun, but that does not mean that the game can’t be just as competitive!”

The Suffolk FA are keen to support the development of Walking Football throughout the county, whilst also encouraging more female players to get involved.

“Post pandemic, these sessions have been a great support to help combat social isolation,” said Kirsty Smith, Football Development Officer (Growth) for the Suffolk FA. “Playing the game and socially interacting with people are all contributing to better mental health and emotional wellbeing as well as giving a natural energy boost.

“We truly believe that football is for all and a great way to keep people physically and mentally fit for longer and we congratulate clubs like AFC Sudbury for these initiatives.”

On the pitch, the team is battling hard to move away from the relegation zone having been promoted to this level from the Isthmian League Division One North at the end of last season. They have won five of their 26 League games so far.

This weekend, The Suds head to Stamford as they look to bounce back from a disappointing home defeat in their last game when they led high-flying Mickleover from the first minute only to concede two very late goals to lose 2-1.

AFC Sudbury Web Site