North East Parkies United ready to compete

A North East walking football team is gearing up for the Sport Parkinson’s Walking Football Tournament after months of preparation.

The Foundation of Light’s Neurological Walking Football programme, designed for people living with neurological conditions, has grown into the North East Parkies United team, which will compete at St. George’s Park on April 19. 

Originally starting as a weekly one-hour session, the programme now attracts 15 regular participants, who gather after every session at the Beacon of Light café to socialise.

Adrian Wrigley, who travels from Billingham to Sunderland every week to take part, said: “After coming along for a session, I immediately loved the community spirt and physical activity. 

“I was formally diagnosed with Parkinson’s four years ago and I have heavy tremors on my left-hand side and starting on the right.

“I’ve actually had some symptoms for the last ten years or so undiagnosed.

“There’s so many positive benefits to these sessions, I’ve never looked back really.

“We always have a coffee and what becomes a bit of a whinge together.

“We match up our symptoms, support networks, and talk about activities going on.

“The social aspects, keeping your mental wellbeing, just having a chat and cracking on with the team, is really important.”

Another participant is Paul Campbell, who was one of the early members of the programme at the beginning of 2022.

Paul, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2010, added: “I didn’t envisage this at all when I first came.

“I’m very proud of everyone who comes along, because they’ve all contributed. 

“We help each other out, and it has been fantastic to now form an official team.

“It’s a great group of people. 

“I look forward to spending time with them every Tuesday and I’m looking forward to competing together.

“We’ve been going through our paces with a couple of friendly matches recently and it’s whetted the appetite to get competing.”

The team has been preparing through friendly matches with Stokesley Walking Football Club and recently showcased their skills as part of the half-time showcase for Foundation of Light’s dedicated Sunderland AFC matchday, taking part in a kickabout on the Stadium of Light pitch.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →