Dubbed the sport’s latest sensation, walking rugby is capturing the hearts of men and women across the region. More than just a game, it’s tackling loneliness, building friendships and giving people of all ages the chance to stay active while enjoying the sport they love.
Community Development Officer Stephen Parsons has seen the difference this format of the game has already made despite a couple of technical hiccups; “There is a clear appetite to grow the game in the region.
“Some attendees are former players looking for a way to be part of the sport they love, getting to relive old memories in a new format. Others have never played before.
“With their age, they can tend to be quite lonely. This is their time to get out and you can see how much it positively impacts them. The big issue has been that each club is playing slightly different rules, which doesn’t help consistency or tempers!”
“Teams usually contain a maximum of seven players at any time, using a smaller (size 4) ball and playing on a square-sized pitch. Halves last around seven minutes and yes, there are yellow cards (a two-minute exclusion) and red cards for any overly robust tackles or hand-offs. Drop the ball, and the other team receives possession.”
It’s simple and effective he goes on, “My aim is to get unity on rules across all clubs, which will allow great participation in competitions.”
Rules aside the benefits in terms of exercise are obvious but what comes across is that walking rugby is about much more than just a game.
The enjoyment of being social and part of a group trumps whatever the result might be, and this was never more in evidence than on January 17 this year, when teams from across the region were asked to showcase their talents at Kingston Park during the European Challenge cup fixture. 25 players of different, genders, ages, and abilities took centre stage to encourage others to sign up and join them.
Jim an ardent participant was blown away by the chance to play on the pitch: “It was amazing, there are some things that you never think you’re going to get to experience, but I’m glad I did, it’s certainly one to tell my grandchildren, but best of all was meeting new faces and encouraging people to try it.”
With plans afoot to hold a walking rugby festival at Wallsend RFC in May, there is no doubt the game will continue to go from strength to strength (as long as everyone can decide on the rules!)
For more information or to find your nearest club email Newcastle Rugby Foundation Health and Wellbeing Development Officer, Pete Corker at pete.corker@newcastle-falcons.co.uk
