Tain man (80) says St Duthus Walking Football Club is ‘what makes me feel happy’
AN inclusive sports group in Tain is on the hunt for new members, with one man (80) saying the club is “what makes me feel happy”.
The Saint Duthus Walking Football Club started in 2021, and meets every Monday and Thursday, starting at 5.45pm for a 6pm kick-off at the Tain Royal Academy astroturf.
Some of the members have shared what brings them to the club each week.
David Mack (80), the club’s oldest member, said: "It makes me feel happy and the group is really cheerful. The craic is good and it gets me out of the house, and at my age any exercise is worth having".
Dudley Johnson (30) the youngest member — although he says his knees don't feel like it — explained why he joined: "It helped me when I was in a really low place. I found it on Facebook and was interested, but worried about my age. I thought there would be an age gap, but from the first meeting, everyone was really welcoming".
Alan, another member, said: "I hadn't played football in 25 years, I needed an escape from work and it helps me switch off for an hour. It’s a good way to meet people, as we are relatively new to the area."
Ann Johnston, (76), the sole woman in the club currently, said: “I joined because I was looking for something completely different from anything I had previously tried. I wanted to stretch myself a bit.
“I had never played football before, I didn't even know the rules, still don't to be honest. But my team mates keep me right. Playing football helps with coordination, as you have to be aware of where your team and the ball is, and should you get the ball, who to pass it too. It also helps improve memory and balance.
“So, football it is good physically and mentally. You get exercise and plenty of fresh air, and it's fun. What more could you ask for?”
Chairperson of the club, Adrian Munro said: "We are an open and welcoming club for all ages, genders and abilities. We try to adhere to the rules set out by Walking football Scotland. So if you enjoy a bit of craic and banter...a warm welcome awaits you."
To learn more about the club, contact Adrian on saintduthuswalkingfootballclub@gmail.com or 07817 827718.
