To celebrate the 19th Annual 50+ York Festival, Rachael Maskell MP played in a special taster session of walking football, run by York City FC Foundation.
Hosted by York Older People’s Assembly, the Annual 50+ York Festival, taking place until the 6 October, is a thriving movement of older people’s organisations, with events put on by groups across the city who want to share what they have to offer the community.
The well-established football sessions run by York City Football Club Foundation at Burnholme were founded back in 2015 and welcome players of all ages and genders to come along and play on the centre’s 3G astroturf pitches.
Each hour-long Monday session costs just £6 per person (payable by card) and consists of a small-sided, mixed ability match.
In addition to Burnholme Community Hub, York City FC Foundation also runs weekly walking football sessions at Energise Sports Centre, Huntington School and Vale of York Academy.
Walking football offers a more accessible version of the game, and Rachael was delighted to participate in the session.
More information on the Annual 50+ York Festival can be found at yorkassembly.org.uk/50-festival-2024
Rachael Maskell MPs says – “I want to thank the York City Football Club Foundation (YCFC) walking football team for welcoming me for a game and for all the fantastic work they are doing in our community.
This was one of the special sessions organised as part of the programme for 19th Annual 50+ York Festival. This year the festival is focusing on the ‘Memories and Dreams’ of older people and what better than a game of football to reminisce, foster community spirit and strengthen social networks for the future.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that regular physical activity is crucial in maintaining cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and joint flexibility and in the case of walking football, the reduced intensity and slower pace make it an ideal form of exercise for older adults, minimising the risk of injury while promoting physical fitness.
We also know engaging in team sports like walking football provides an excellent opportunity for older adults to build friendships, develop a sense of camaraderie, and stay socially engaged, which can contribute to a greater quality of life.
I look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of the 50+ Festival and encourage all residents to participate and reap the benefits.”
Paula Stainton’s (manager of York City FC Foundation) says – “We were delighted to welcome Rachael to our one of our weekly Walking Football sessions. We host 4 sessions per week open to all ages who simply want to take part in the slower paced version of the beautiful game.
Our sessions are a vital part in many people’s week providing both physical exercise and social interaction, and it’s important to us for there to be an offer for everyone from those who enjoy recreational activity to those who wish to compete in the local walking football league.
It was fabulous for Rachael to meet some of our players, and to don her trainers to experience the game first hand.”
