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.