EWFC December 2024 Training
England Walking Football Community Gathers at St George’s Park for Final 2024 Training Session
The picturesque grounds of St George’s Park, England’s national football centre, provided the perfect backdrop for the England Walking Football Community’s final training session of 2024. Players from across the country, spanning a variety of age groups and both genders, came together not only to hone their skills but to celebrate the camaraderie and friendships forged through their shared love of the game.
A Warm Welcome and Strong Bonds
As players arrived early in the afternoon, the sense of community was palpable. Smiles, handshakes, and hearty greetings filled the air, showcasing the strong bonds that have developed over years of shared experiences on and off the pitch. For many, walking football has become more than just a sport - it’s a source of friendship, fitness, and joy.
Celebrating Achievements: A Moment of Pride
Before the training session officially began, Tony Norton, a key figure in the England Walking Football Community, took centre stage to present caps to players in recognition of their outstanding performances in previous matches at Redditch United. The cap presentation was a proud and emotional moment, with each recipient receiving hearty applause from their peers. It was a reminder of the dedication and hard work that goes into representing the England Walking Football Community, as well as the shared pride in each other’s accomplishments.
Training in Teams: Inclusion and Enjoyment
Once the presentations were complete, Tony divided the group into eight mixed-gender and mixed-age teams. This inclusive approach exemplified the spirit of walking football, which is as much about enjoying the game and fostering connections as it is about competition.
The session itself was played in excellent spirits. Players displayed not only skill and strategy but also encouragement and support for one another. The laughter, and smiles highlighted the sense of fun and enjoyment that permeated the event. Regardless of age or experience, everyone contributed to the dynamic energy of the session.
Eyes on Rome: Preparing for the Nations Cup
With this training session now in the books, the England Walking Football Community shifts its focus to the upcoming Nations Cup in Rome. Scheduled to take place on the weekend of March 22nd-23rd at the renowned Stadio Dei Marmi, or "Stadium of Marbles," the tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience. Players are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to showcase their skills on an international stage, all while upholding the values of teamwork, respect, and sportsmanship.
A Day to Remember
The final training session at St George’s Park was more than just preparation for future competitions; it was a celebration of everything the England Walking Football Community stands for. From the pride of earning caps to the joy of playing alongside friends old and new, the day captured the essence of what makes this group so special.
As the players left St George’s Park, it was clear that they were not just teammates - they were part of a family united by their passion for walking football. The countdown to Rome has begun, and if this session was any indication, the England Walking Football Community is more than ready to make their mark on the international stage.
England Walking Football Community Prepares for Rome with Stay at Hotel River Chateau
As the England Walking Football Community gears up for the highly anticipated Nations Cup in Rome, their accommodation plans are set, ensuring convenience and comfort for the players and family. The hotel of choice for this exciting weekend is the elegant Hotel River Chateau, a boutique hotel that promises a memorable stay.
About Hotel River Chateau
Located in the prestigious Parioli district of Rome, Hotel River Chateau is a refined 4-star establishment known for its elegant décor and impeccable service. The hotel offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and classic Italian charm, making it an ideal base for the team as they focus on their upcoming matches.
Preparing for the Nations Cup
With its prime location, excellent amenities, and proximity to the tournament venue, the Hotel River Chateau ensures that the England Walking Football Community can focus on their performance while enjoying the comforts of a premium stay. Whether it’s the short commute to Stadio dei Marmi or the relaxing ambiance after a competitive day, the hotel provides an ideal base for the team’s Rome adventure.
As March approaches, excitement continues to build. With their accommodations secured and training in full swing, the England Walking Football Community is ready to take on the Nations Cup in style, both on and off the pitch.
Official Website: Hotel River Chateau
Expedia offers convenient flight and hotel packages, making it the most cost-effective way to book your trip. Sharing a room with fellow players further reduces costs, ensuring an even better deal for everyone.
Location
A Tribute to Tony Norton: The Heart of England Walking Football Community
No discussion about the success of the England Walking Football Community would be complete without recognising the tireless efforts of Tony Norton, whose passion and dedication make training sessions and international tournaments not only possible but memorable.
Tony’s commitment goes far beyond the logistics of organising events. From planning meticulously structured training sessions to coordinating international tournaments, his attention to detail ensures that every aspect of the experience runs smoothly. Whether it’s dividing players into balanced teams, presenting caps to celebrate achievements, or inspiring camaraderie among the group, Tony’s leadership shines through.
But Tony’s contribution isn’t just about the practicalities. He’s the heart and soul of the community, fostering an environment of inclusivity, mutual respect, and fun. His enthusiasm is contagious, motivating players of all ages and abilities to bring their best to the pitch. His vision has transformed walking football into more than just a game - it’s a family.
As the team prepares for the Nations Cup in Rome, it’s clear that much of their success stems from Tony’s unwavering dedication. The England Walking Football Community is stronger, closer, and better prepared because of Tony’s hard work, and for that, he has earned the heartfelt gratitude of everyone involved.
Thank you, Tony, for being the driving force behind this incredible journey.
Written by Paul Clarke
Gallery 1st December 2024
EWFC
Blog: The International Invitational 2024 Walking Football Tournament – A Weekend to Remember
The last weekend of September 2024 brought a unique sporting event to the picturesque town of Redditch, where Walking Football enthusiasts from across the globe gathered to compete in the International Invitational 2024 Walking Football Tournament, hosted by Redditch United. Among the highlights of the weekend were the performances of England's Over 50s Walking Football team, a squad that showcased both the skill and dedication that have become hallmarks of this growing sport.
I had the honour of being invited by the England Walking Football Community to assist with some media activities, providing me with a front-row seat to witness the remarkable effort, preparation, and camaraderie of this exceptional group of players.
Preparation is Key: England’s Tactical Approach
Arriving at the venue 90 minutes before their opening match, the England team showed that Walking Football is taken just as seriously as its traditional counterpart. England Manager Steve Judd, known for his meticulous planning, led a team meeting that set the tone for the weekend. With Brendan Maxwell providing exceptional support in preparing the squad, their focus on detail was evident. They outlined a clear game plan, giving the team a strong vision for how to approach each match. Their tactical insight left no aspect overlooked, even assigning volunteers to scout the opposition, ensuring England’s strategy was perfectly refined for every encounter.
It was inspiring to watch the team fully engage with Judd’s instructions, embracing the game plan with focus and commitment. The professionalism was undeniable, and every player was clearly ready to give their all.
Togetherness on and off the Pitch
As the tournament unfolded, England’s performances reflected their pre-game preparation and their unity as a team. Over the two days, they managed to win five of their seven matches, drawing one, and losing one — a testament to their strong team ethic. Each game was fiercely contested, but the players’ determination to execute the plan and work for one another shone through.
From the sidelines, it was impossible to ignore the positivity and encouragement flowing from the players. Every substitution was met with cheers and motivation from those on the bench, with the players showing genuine pride in each other's efforts. This sense of togetherness extended beyond the white lines, too, with players, staff, and volunteers all united in their passion for the sport and the spirit of the tournament.
A Memorable Performance and a Close Finish
While England’s Over 50s team finished second overall, their performance was nothing short of commendable. They were only denied the top spot by a last-minute defeat to the Caribbean team — an agonisingly close loss that left the competition wide open. However, the result didn’t overshadow the team’s incredible display of skill, effort, and sportsmanship.
What made the weekend even more special was seeing how much enjoyment everyone derived from the event. Many had traveled long distances and given up their weekends, yet the smiles on their faces and the sense of fun in the air were unmistakable. Walking Football may be a slower-paced version of the game, but it doesn’t lack passion or commitment.
Walking Football: More Than Just a Game
Walking Football continues to grow in popularity, offering a space for older players to stay active, compete, and enjoy the social benefits that come with being part of a team. For many, it’s more than just a game; it’s a community that fosters health, well-being, and friendships.
This was evident throughout the tournament, where teams from around the world came together not only to compete but to celebrate a shared love of football. The sense of camaraderie and mutual respect between the teams was palpable, making the International Invitational 2024 as much a festival of Walking Football as it was a competitive tournament.
Final Thoughts
From my privileged position, it was fantastic to witness such a well-organised and enjoyable event. The England Walking Football Community deserves immense credit for the way it carried itself throughout the tournament. The players, coaching staff, and volunteers all worked together seamlessly, embodying the values of teamwork, dedication, and enjoyment.
As England’s Over 50s team walked away with their heads held high after finishing second, they left a lasting impression not just for their results but for their spirit and camaraderie. I, for one, am excited to follow their fortunes in the future and see how they build on this successful weekend. Well done to everyone involved — this was Walking Football at its finest!
A heartfelt thank you and congratulations are in order for Tony Norton and everyone involved in organising such a fantastic event.
