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People from across Great Britain unite for Walking Football Tournament in Salford

Photography: Lewis Mckenna

Salford Sports Village was the host of the second annual walking football tournament to be organised by Sporting Memories with support from Iron Mountain EMEA, with over 80 people from the local community and beyond enjoying a day of football involving all generations.

On a bright and clear day in Salford, walking football teams from across Greater Manchester as well as Scotland gathered to take part in the tournament. Despite the competition being focused on teams of walking footballers aged 50+, there was a multi-generational theme to the day with a number of families and young people in attendance – with one young man playing a vital role in the tournament!

Foundation 92 retain the crown

Over 50 players and seven teams took part in the walking football tournament, with a fun but competitive atmosphere in the air as the sides took to the pitch. Despite the teams consisting of mainly male players, two teams also featured female players, with one of the teams being an all-female side.

Last year’s winners, Foundation 92, returned to defend their title from last year’s inaugural tournament and were eventually successful in getting their hands on the trophy once again as they defeated another local side – Urmston Strollers – 4-0 in the final.

Young Fynn saves the day!

Despite all the teams turning up on time for the tournament, there was one thing missing – the referees. Overnight two of the match officials had to withdraw from refereeing the tournament which could have meant having to rearrange a number of fixtures.

However, Fynn, who travelled to the tournament to watch his dad play for one of the teams, stated he knew the rules of football and would like to have a go at refereeing. Supported by his sister Lori, who was time-keeping on the sidelines, they both successfully managed to officiate three of the matches in the tournament – a huge well done to Fynn and Lori!

Alongside the referring skills of two of the young people in attendance, the day also gave the opportunity for the young people in attendance to practice their football skills through a range of drills and fun activities.

Reflecting on a great day for all

Trevor Rollison, who along with Viv Loder, supports Sporting Memories and our clubs across Salford and Greater Manchester, said: “It was heart-warming to see so many people of different ages, mobility and ability competing in the tournament.

“The day was full of laughter and fun and rounded off with awards presented during our buffet and social gathering. Thanks to all who participated and to the friendly and helpful staff of Salford Sports Village as well as Iron Mountain EMEA for their support.”

If you would like to find out more about Sporting Memories clubs in Salford and Greater Manchester, you can do so by contacting Trevor via contact@sportingmemories.uk