The Tottenham Hotspur Foundation runs a hugely successful walking football programme under the guidance of Renee Hector, the project co-ordinator.
We caught up with two of the players to find out about their experience of the initiative.
Marsha Evans, 47, signed up for the women’s team to give her a focus outside of work and family life.
“It gave me an opportunity to do something outside of my work,” she said. “It made me feel alive again.”
But when she was diagnosed with breast cancer the sport took on a whole new significance.
“That was was quite difficult time for me and my family. One of the things that made me feel really positive was that I wanted to come back to play football,” she said.
“During the time a lot of the coaches were in contact with me, checking that I was OK while l was having my treatment which was really impressive. When I came back to training it just felt like I had a purpose, I had something to fight for and aim for because when you are diagnosed with breast cancer it’s upsetting and unnerving. You don’t know what the future’s going to bring.
“I couldn’t wait to get back to playing with my team-mates, being around them. Everyone who was part of this journey was in my corner supporting me. I felt like I wasn’t alone. I got the all clear from my consultant and I was able to come out to compete in a tournament in Barcelona. It’s given me a sense of purpose. I feel alive. Now I feel fantastic.
“We are like a little family and that’s been amazing. It’s fun, it’s competitive. The THF and everything it’s opened up for us is amazing. We have a team of fantastic coaches. It’s been really uplifting. I just feel fit again. I’m very grateful.
“For people in the community who can’t afford to do things the THF makes a massive difference. If I can do anything to encourage more people to take part and reap the benefits it’ll be fantastic. It’s really doing a lot for the community.”
Another player, Terry Grant, 54, thought that walking football sounded a bit slow, a bit boring and something for old folk.
“I came and tried it out and it’s been one of the best experiences I’ve had in a long time. It’s brought football back to life for me,” he said.
“I used to try to play 11-a-side but it was a bit too much for me — my hamstrings were popping and my groin was going. This is much more easy on my body. I’ve got to really love football again. I’m playing for my team, Tottenham Hotspur, I’ve always supported Spurs.
“I really enjoy the camaraderie. I’m living my childhood dream at 54, I feel truly blessed. I’m actually in the South East regional squad for England. That’s mad in itself. It’s been a crazy year. I’m now in Spain playing for Tottenham Hostpur what could anybody else ask for?
