Walking football is a format of the game that allows players to participate once they are no longer willing or able to participate in the traditional 11-aside format. Walking football is currently the UK's fastest-growing sport, and regularly played by an estimated 60,000 people in England alone and has a large potential for growth. There are growing opportunities to participate in walking football both locally, and across Aotearoa.

Nationally, in February 2024, Walking Football Nelson with support of Mainland Football hosted New Zealand’s first international walking football festival. Teams travelled from across New Zealand and Australia to participate. The event was an overwhelming success, with plans already starting for the 2025 festival. 

Locally, walking football in the Capital has been led by a dedicated group of community advocates and participants. This group with the support of Capital Football has nurtured the growth and sustainability of the format in our region. They continue to support and participate in walking football weekly at Petone Memorial Turf. Join the Walking Football Wellington Region Facebook group to see where you can play.

We were delighted to kick of 2024 hosting Harry Hubball, a consultant to FIFA and UEFA on overage football attending to share his knowledge and experience. From coaching tips, benefits, and how to grow the game, Harry covered a range of topics that enhanced our understanding and enjoyment of walking football.

More recently, Capital Football and Akuā Tangi have been collaborating to run low impact football during the day, targeted at participants over the age of 50. We had our first festival on the 18th of June and are looking to expand these festival days into weekly activations. This is an exciting development in the walking football space, and we will continue to look at how we can support the growth of this format.

For more information about Walking Football please have a look on our website Capital Football - Walking Football, or contact Federation Development Officer – Community Lead, Connol Modd – connol@capitalfootball.org.nz

Article added: Thursday 04 July 2024