“Give it a go even if you have not played before even in your younger years” April Players of the Month 26 April 2024 We’re keeping up with our monthly spotlight on Walking Football Scotland Players of the Month! weekly sessions and Walking Football Scotland league and cup events has further assisted me in having a healthy retirement. For April the Walking Football Scotland Women’s Player of the Month is Sam Wells! Sam plays with the Jeanfield Swifts. Walking Football Scotland Men’s Player of the Month is Jim Ramsay! Jim, 66, plays with Tweedvale. Congratulations Sam and Jim! They shared their reflections on what Walking Football means to them. Why did you get involved in walking football? Sam: “I originally started walking football as I felt I really should be doing some exercise as I was getting older and I needed to get out and about.The gym and aerobics etc were not for me but football was always my love at school (a very long time ago!) so I popped along.” Jim: “My wife and I retired to Peebles in 2018. To get involved with the local community we looked around at the various clubs and groups in the local area. I spotted a poster about the Walking Football taking place at the Peebles Drill Hall. So I went along in August 2008 and have been going since. It is a great activity for fitness and social well being.” What positive impact has walking football had on your life? Sam: “It is honestly one of the best things I have done. I have made amazing friends, the social side is great fun. I now play competitively with the team and am travelling abroad for tournaments. It has made me fitter and feel younger!” Jim: “It has helped ease me into retirement. It assists in keeping fit and has helped building new friendships in a new town. Having not played to any level of football during my working life taking part in our twice weekly sessions and Walking Football Scotland league and cup events has further assisted me in having a healthy retirement.” What would you say to encourage others to come along? Sam: “Walking Football is what you want it to be. It can just be keeping fit or forming friendships but it can be the opportunity to play competitively and travel. My team has given me so so much more than just playing walking football and I love it!” Jim: “Give it a go even if you have not played before even in your younger years. You will find a welcome from like minded people and build new friendships that will lead to social bonds within your community.” Inspired? Find out more about our partnership with Walking Football Scotland. Walking Football We’re partnering with Walking Football Scotland because keeping active is one of the best things that you can do to improve your physical, mental and social wellbeing. Find out more about how you can keep active. Physical Activity