Walking football gives men a new lease of life

Dexter Walking football has increased in numbers over the past few years, especially among those who have lost loved ones and are maintaining their mental health.

It started off with twelve people in 2015, with the support of the local community and the council securing funding for the project.

It’s designed to build confidence and have a support network while engaging in social events.

Paul Kybert said: “Some of the other guys have lost their lives instead of being isolated, we come out to play football”.

He believes it gives a supportive space to players to engage and a way to socially connected.

With weekly training sessions and playing in the Dorset League, providing a competitive side to the game, with their next fixture coming in on the 9^th of February against Bournemouth.

There are 60 participants who are currently taking part in the sessions, including people of all ages.

During the sessions, it helps those who can benefit from their coordination skills, as Mr Kybert said: “Some people in the sessions have had recent surgeries, such as a hip replacement and a knee injury.”

During 2021- 2023, there has been more than 1,000 people joined a walking football study done by Age UK.

Kybert felt the local community is on board with the project, with the local council contributing by providing a 4G pitch and a lease.

Mr Kybert said: “Its county wide now and well supported by the FA, as they have made this facility available.”

He expressed his thoughts on how the local companies increased their advertising on walking football to increase visibility.

They are looking to lease the local pitches from the local council and hoping to upgrade the parking for the Dexter Sports facilities.

The local facilities in Poole can provide good quality for the future prospect, as Eddie Howe began his youth career playing for Dexter Youth Academy and then progressed to AFC Bournemouth.

Dexter Walking Football in Poole is one of the oldest walking football organisations in Dorset, which started in 2015, celebrating its 10^th anniversary at the end of last year, as the slower version of football continues to grow.