By Samuel Balls
Most footballers decide to hang up their boots when their legs can longer operate at the speed their head desires.
It can be a frustrating time for middle aged players entering the twilight of their career as the decision to call quits on a lifetime in the game beckons.
But, as the newest footballing phenomenon hits the artificial pitches of Maldon, players as old as 80 can now return to a sport they once loved in the shape of walking football.
Sessions start on October 15 and will be held between 5pm and 6pm on the all-weather artificial pitch at Plume School, Fambridge Road, Maldon.
The rules are exactly the same as the conventional version of the game, and there are no age restrictions.
Individuals who may have retired from regular football, or who perhaps suffer from a mobility injury, can play again with confidence.
The meetings are recreational and light-hearted, as players enjoy a less frenetic spectacle with like-minded people more accustomed to Jimmy Greaves than Wayne Rooney.
Plume School is also offering Maldon residents the chance to participate in non-competitive matches after Maldon District Council and the Essex County FA collaborated to set-up a Mars Just Play Centre.
The upgrade has seen the deposed 'turn-up and play' football session transformed into an officially recognised affair.
Matches take place every second Monday between 5pm and 6pm, with anyone over 16 able to convene for a friendly game with work colleagues and friends for 5v5, 6v6 or 7v7 encounters.
Players can play without the pressure of playing in a league or having to commit each week and all abilities are welcome.
One participant claimed: "It's friendly and relaxed, with no commitment. It's been perfect as I'm able to come straight from work and have a kick-about.
"I've not played in years but, as it's not serious stuff, I've got back into it really quickly. It's all different abilities and everyone enjoys it. I can't make every week, but that's the good part about it - I can show-up when I want"
For more information on either initiative, contact Simon Walker via email at simon.walker@maldon,gov,uk or phone 01621 854477.
