Redditch Borough Council is delighted to announce the town’s first Walking Football Tournament taking place later this month, in partnership with Redditch United.
 
The event, which is designed to encourage socialisation, meeting other teams, and having some fun, will be held on Thursday 20th July from 3pm to 5pm (registration from 2pm) at The Valley Stadium, home of Redditch United. Interested clubs, organisations, businesses, and friendship groups are being encouraged to put forward seven-a-side teams for just £35 per team.
 
There is no restriction on gender, age or ability and squads can be made up of any number of people, with roll on and roll off substitutions. Please note that any vulnerable adults or children must be accompanied by a parent or carer at all times. Spectators are welcome, and entry is free. This is a great opportunity to support the participants and learn more about walking sports in Redditch.
 
Walking football has gained immense popularity in recent years, with many different groups created across the borough, as it is great for people who may have previously been unable to participate in the traditional version of the sport due to injury, age, or mobility constraints. Other similar walking sports opportunities in Redditch include walking cricket, walking touch rugby, and soon-to-be-introduced walking netball.
 
Leisure Portfolio Holder for Redditch Borough Council, Cllr Joanne Beecham, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating: "The Walking Football Tournament at Redditch United is a fantastic initiative that promotes health and exercise for all. We’ve seen a lot of clubs start up and they’ve all been very well received, so to bring everyone together for a tournament is fantastic.

“Even if you aren’t part of one of the formal sessions, you can still put a team forward, perhaps for your business or friendship group, and just have a bit of fun and meet like-minded people."
 
The tournament will be played in accordance with the rules of walking football encouraging a slower pace of play and enabling participants to enjoy the sport while minimising the risk of injury. The event will feature multiple matches, culminating in an exciting final that promises to showcase the skill and determination of the players.
 
Council Leader, Cllr Matt Dormer, said: "This tournament illustrates our commitment to supporting recreational opportunities for all members of our community, regardless of age or ability. It’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone to take part in and I encourage as many people as possible to put forward a team – or at least to come along and cheer for the participants as they showcase their skills and demonstrate the true spirit of walking football."
 
The tournament has been put together by Redditch United and RBC Sports Development as a way to bring the Walking Football community together and to raise awareness of all the Walking Football sessions on offer in and around the area.
 
For further information on walking football sessions and the tournament, including footwear, rules and registration details, go here.