Hi there, 

In coaching an U8's team I came across this forum and additional resources whilst doing my course. 

I am 37 years old, have had double-digit knee operations thus my playing became very restricted younger than I expected. I get a buzz out of coaching but miss the buzz of playing. I stumbled on a great local group a few years ago (Playing Walking Football) - and play most friday nights and have subsequently recruited many other school dads to join me. 'Walking football' was once scoffed at by them, they now all LOVE it. 

The group i play with are mainly in their 50/60/70's - but having a fresh intake of 37-48 year olds (me and my mates) has made for a great bunch and also ensures Friday nights don't get cancelled because of low numbers. 

Playing socially weekly is great. But part of me wants to play with a little more friendly competition but everywhere i look the categories are 50/60/70+ 

I've seen some tournaments at 40+ (rarely) but I'm a few years off that.... 

I wanted to see if I'm missing a trick as there must be a huge gap in the footballing market where adults can no longer run, or have mobility restrictions due to injuries who are still keen to play. I find it hard to believe you need to get to 50+ before there are teams and tournaments to get involved in!? 

I'd love to help grow the game and educate a huge audience (18-49) that simply haven't experienced it or appreciated how good it is! 

If anyone sees this post and would be keen to connect and talk this through that'd be great. 

Even if a new category is defined (like vets) where the qualifying criteria is 36+ - you'll get great mixes of teams and a few folks like me who play in goal and can't run :-) 

I know if there was such a thing I'd have a travelling band of merry men from 37-72 who'd form a team and have fun touring the country! 

Anyways, if this has sparked any thought I'd love to chat further. 

JB