Just Play is an England Football programme providing opportunities for all to play casual, social football. It is a great tool for walking football clubs and sessions to attract new players, manage sessions and access England Football resources and rewards.
We spoke with Bobby Kavanagh from Romford Walking FC who run 3 male and female Just Play Kickabout sessions. To recognise their commitments, the club has recently been rewarded with complimentary tickets to the England Men v Serbia game at Wembley Stadium in November.
- When did you set up your walking football Just Play session and how would you describe it?
Our women's session has been set up for around a year and I'm pleased to say our two weekly men's sessions have jumped on board a couple of months ago. The sessions are going really well.
- How have you found the experience of setting up and delivering a Just Play walking football session?
It's been very easy. We have been running walking football sessions for many years now but running the Just Play sessions has just enhanced the opportunity for other members of our community to get involved. Essex FA (Jake) have really helped with the process.
- What has been the impact of setting up a Just Play for your club?
It enables more members of our community to get involved in walking football through being visible on Find Football. It also makes our club stronger in terms of competitive walking football through providing a feeder into our teams and more importantly helps build our own community club.
- What would you say to other walking football clubs or new individuals looking to set up a Just Play?
I would strongly advise it. The support from your local County FA is great and it's a lovely feeling to be able to help members of your community. People are always looking for opportunities to engage in their community.
- What does it mean to your club to be rewarded and recognised?
It's great to be rewarded & recognised by the FA. Life is all about helping people & every little thing you do has an impact. Our club members are looking forward to the England v Serbia game.
- What are your hopes for the future for your club and walking footbalI?
We'll carry on doing what we are doing. We've grown from around 35 members to 120 members in the last couple of years. We started off with two teams & now have eight which includes two women's teams, over 50s, 60s, 65s & 70's teams. We also run three regular weekly fun sessions that I am pleased to say are FA Just Play sessions now.
There are two types of Just Play sessions…Learn to Play and Kickabout.
Kickabout is for players who already play, or who are returning to the game. It’s easy and informal, fun and casual.
Learn to Play is for women and girls aged 16+ who are newcomers to football, and those who prefer a less competitive experience. The coach-led session has a game and skills coaching for passing, shooting, turning and dribbling...all in a safe, supportive space.
Are you inspired by Bobby’s story and want to set up your own Just Play session or find one to participate in?
Find out more here: https://www.englandfootball.com/play/adult-football/Just-Play/Providers