Walking Football | 1874 Northwich F.C.

Walking Football

1874 Northwich Walking Football Club provides an opportunity for men over the age of 55 and women over 40, to play a “slower”, non-contact version of the beautiful game. The mission is “Fitness, Friendship and Fun”, the 3 Fs.

The group is split into two sections, men and women, to reflect the different starting point and needs. In most cases, the men are looking to continue their footballing journey, whereas for some women, this is their first time playing football, and so there is more emphasis on coaching and development. However, there are also joint events, men against women or mixed teams.

1874 Northwich Walking Football Club began in November 2015, when our then Chairman, Paul Stockton, delivered two sets of shirts to the newly formed group who played at Moss Farm. Over the years, 1874 Northwich FC has continued to support this group with affiliation and insurance, seeing 1874 Northwich teams play in men’s and women’s tournaments and bring home a range of silverware. However, the biggest success is the enjoyment and health benefits gained by our players, and the friendship groups that have developed.

What is walking football?

The rules of walking football are based on standard football, but with a number of key differences aimed at reducing the risk of injury and helping those less mobile to enjoy the game. The main differences are that players must NOT run, walking is defined as keeping one foot in contact with the ground at all times (and some of the techniques used to maximise the speed whilst walking are a joy to behold!). There is no contact allowed, no sliding tackles, no tackling from behind or from the side. This is all about reducing the risk of trips and falls, the consequence of which are more serious as we get older.

The rules adopted by 1874 Northwich Walking Football Club (1874 WFC) are based on the FA rules. For a summary of our rules, please follow this link 1874 Northwich Walking Football Rules. Although the core rules are the same for both the men’s and women’s games, the women do not routinely play three touch football.

When you join the club, you will be asked to sign up to our code of conduct. 1874 Northwich FC is committed to The FA’s Respect campaign and have adopted the FA Respect codes at all levels of football. The Code of Conduct for Walking Football exists to outline the Club’s expectations regarding players’ behaviour, so that everyone who is involved in walking football can do so in a safe and enjoyable environment.

Where and when do you play?

We play at Moss Farm on the 3G pitch managed by Cheshire FA. Match referees are provided and have been specifically trained to officiate walking football.
The core sessions are:

DAYTIMESECTIONFORMAT
MONDAY3.30PM – 4.00PMWOMENTRAINING / MATCH
MONDAY4.00PM – 5.00PMWOMENMATCH
WEDNESDAY11.00AM – 12.00PMMENMATCH
FRIDAY4.00PM – 5.00PMWOMENFUN FRIDAY MATCH

Competitions / Tournaments

1874 Northwich Walking Football Club is affiliated to both The FA and WFA (Walking Football Association).

We have two teams (1874 Danes and 1874 Weavers) who regularly play in the Cheshire FA Women’s Walking Football tournaments, which are held monthly at Moss Farm.

The women have also taken part in the Walking Football Association (WFA) National Cup competition which is an annual tournament (held at Nottingham in 2023).

The 2023 National Cup Squad

They also took part in the EuroCopa tournament in Portugal in March 2024.

The 2024 Portugal Squad

Our men’s section is not currently entered in any tournaments or competitions.

Cost

It costs £6 per month to play once per week – excellent value – I think you’d agree. If you wish to play multiple times per week, then the cost is £12 per month. We collect fees by standing order monthly. Fees are used to pay for pitch hire, equipment and training costs, competition entries and social events. Generally, we suggest that you come along and give it a try (for free) and if you enjoy it and want to join, we will sort out the paperwork at that point.

How do I get involved?

If you would like to come along and give it a try, please contact the session organisers or contact 1874 Northwich at society@1874northwich.com.

General Enquiries: society@1874northwich.com

Session Organiser – Men: Ian McDonald: mcdonald-ian@sky.com

Session Organiser – Women: Steve Ellis: steveellis100@gmail.com

We hope to see you in the future.

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