Afro-Caribbean Walking Football
In collaboration with the Jason Roberts Foundation, Afro-Caribbean Walking Football was founded by Shaun Merchant, Ken Guiste, Gregg Dalmar and George Evans. Walking footballers who share a passion to develop the sport they love, both in the UK and abroad.
The Jason Roberts Foundation invests in local communities to change outcomes for the most marginalised in the United Kingdom and Caribbean.
Latest Afro-Caribbean Walking Football News
Stay up to date with the latest Afro-Carobbean walking football news, including match reports, tournaments and events.
Join Afro-Caribbean Walking Football
Our Purpose
To engage and work with all walking football groups/clubs, partners, participants, local authorities, health services and any other organisations interested in the development of walking football. Increase participation by managing, supporting, developing and promoting walking football among the Afro-Caribbean diaspora. Create and support a sustainable competition structure throughout the Afro-Caribbean diaspora at all appropriate age levels in conjunction with existing competitions that encourages full social integration.
Otis Roberts, CEO of The Jason Roberts Foundation said “This collaboration makes absolute sense to us at JRF. As a community based charity we are well aware of the inactivity that is evident in the Afro-Caribbean Community once that 40 marker is reached. Walking Football is a great way for people to stay active and be a part of something that is social and has many health benefits. Once folks get active again who knows what they’ll do next.” JRF is fully aligned with Afro-Caribbean Walking Football’s mission is to improve, maintain and promote the physical, mental and social wellbeing of older adults through walking football.
Walking football is played by hundreds of thousands of people in over 70 countries. The health and mental benefits for the Afro-Caribbean Community—particularly, males who are 40 plus—are numerous. Chronic Illnesses such as Diabetes, Dementia and Parkinson’s have plagued Afro-Caribbean communities for decades and Walking football provides a low-impact cardiovascular workout. It helps improve endurance, strength, and overall fitness. Regular participation can lead to better cardiovascular health, increased stamina, and improved muscle tone. Fantastic for mental stimulation, stress relief and social interaction. It’s designed to help people get fit, maintain an active lifestyle no matter what their age and fitness level, as well as to support people getting back into football.
Upcoming Afro-Caribbean Walking Football Fixtures
Check out upcoming Afro-Caribbean walking football fixtures, including league matches, tournaments and friendlies. See full match reports and fixtures on our walking football results page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is walking football?
Walking football is a modified version of the traditional game designed to be a low-impact sport. Initiated by John Croot at AFC Chesterfield back in 2011, it’s a fun and social way for people to stay active, focusing on exercise, health and fitness without the high-intensity exertion of regular football. This makes it ideal for seniors looking for a way to engage in exercise and community activities.
How is walking football different from regular football?
The primary rule modification in walking football is that players must walk, not run. This ensures the game remains low-impact, reducing the risk of injury while still offering a great workout for seniors. The game emphasises strategy, coordination, and balance over speed, making it accessible for players of all fitness levels.
What are the health benefits of walking football?
Walking football provides people with numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular fitness, agility, balance, and coordination. It also helps with weight management, enhances muscle strength, and promotes mental well-being through social interaction and teamwork.
Who can join Afro-Caribbean Walking Football?
We open to all seniors of Afro-Caribbean heritage who are interested in playing walking football, generally men over 50. Whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned player, our club welcomes you to join and enjoy the game, make new friends, and stay active.
What equipment do I need to play?
Players need appropriate sports attire, including comfortable clothing and suitable footwear for playing on grass or artificial turf. Shin guards are recommended for additional protection. All other equipment, such as the footballs and goalposts, is provided by the organisation.
Are there any specific rules I need to know?
Yes, walking football has several modified rules to ensure the game remains safe and enjoyable. Key rules include no running, no physical contact, and the ball must remain below head height. The game focuses on passing, shooting, and ball dribbling techniques with an emphasis on strategy and teamwork.
Can I try walking football before committing to join?
Absolutely! We offer trial sessions for newcomers to experience the game and see if it’s the right fit for them. It’s a great opportunity to meet our members, understand the rules, and get a feel for the game in a supportive environment.
What skills will I develop by playing walking football?
Playing walking football helps develop various skills including passing, shooting, dribbling, and overall technique. The game also enhances your strategic thinking, agility, coordination, and balance, contributing to better overall physical and mental health.
Do you participate in tournaments?
Yes, we participate in local, regional, national and international walking football tournaments and leagues. These events provide a great opportunity to test your skills, enjoy some healthy competition, and meet players from other areas. Tournaments are a highlight of our activities and are always fun and rewarding experiences.