Walking Footballers Star at Mayor’s Tournament
Photograph: Debbie Christopher
On Sunday afternoon, our beginners walking football team set out for their first ever tournament at Harris Academy Mitcham, as part of Mayor Joan Henry’s Charity Fundraising event!
As they arrived, they were greeted by two teams looking very professional in their boldly striped black and red, and black and white kit. The captain of one of the teams approached them and asked where their kit was so they quickly got changed! The team arrived in drips and drabs and players were feeling a little bit nervous and unsure….
While our team gathering themselves, the two striped teams played one another. They were both Tooting & Mitcham FC teams, with the red and black team known as T&M Devils. They looked very professional and well organised.
The fourth team taking part was AFC Wimbledon's Wednesday evening team, who wore a smart yellow and blue kit. The team received brand new AFC Wimbledon shirts from Foundation Director Philip Rudling, but sadly the kit ran a little small. It would have been perfect for the couple of female players on the team, however neither of our regular female players were available to play.
But that didn’t stop the team, on they went, and they played brilliantly! In their first game, they played against the black and white team, who were fearsome, organised, and determined. However, they made up for what they were lacking with enthusiasm. Special mention must go to goalie, Peter, who kept the outcome at a no-score draw! Quite an achievement, wouldn’t you agree?
There were certificates from Merton Mayor, Joan Henry, and medals for the winners and runners-up. We are not too sure who won, but the AFC Wimbledon Beginners Walking Football Team drew third place!
“‘The one thing that really impressed me, while I was taking photos from the side-line, was the quiet discussion taking place behind me: they had noticed that one of our players was clearly disabled but playing his best. Between them, they agreed not to tackle him and give him space to kick at goal if he got possession. They went and had a quiet word with the ref, and all the players adopted this plan: what a wonderful spirit of support and acceptance. That player was in his element too, and only sat out for one game.
It was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon, and I loved watching my husband living the dream of being a football player. Thank you for making this tournament and 5-aside walking football available to us.’ ”