Local stroke survivors compete in walking football tournament

Rochdale Stroke Active

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Two teams of local stroke survivors competed in a Walking football tournament yesterday (Saturday 28 March).

Held at Heywood Sports Village, the tournament was the first of its kind held in the borough and saw Rochdale Stroke Active and Rochdale Strollers compete against ten teams from up and down the country.

Emma Willis from the Stroke Association said: “Walking football has really taken off and is becoming really popular, that’s why we have had to enter two teams. Tournaments are regularly held up and down the country but this is the first time it has been in Rochdale."

Organised by Link4Life, in association with the Stroke Association, the tournament saw the 12 teams compete in games of 10 minutes long.

James Cooney from Rochdale AFC manages the Rochdale Strollers. He said: “Walking football is a really good way to get these men back out there and getting involved with something. Instead of being sat at home and watching the television they are active. We have seen some really good results from people getting involved with this.”

Steve Colesby, a Rochdale Strollers player, said: “It is really good and it is something that I thoroughly enjoy.”

Peter Lyons, also from the Rochdale Strollers, said: “A lady from the Stoke Association told me about it and I got involved from there. It is really good and I enjoy doing it. The tournament has been good as well.”

Craig Preston, from Rochdale Stroke Active, got involved with Walking football after suffering a stroke. He said: “I got involved through the Stroke Association after I suffered a stroke. Football was always something I had an interest in but because of my balance I couldn’t play. Getting involved with walking football has really helped with my balance and my confidence and with my walking with and without a stick.”

The tournament was for those aged 50 and over, with exceptions made to encourage inclusion for those with restricted mobility and or long-term conditions.