Walking Football Kicks Off in Cefn with Enthusiastic Community Response
Cefn Community Council's first-ever walking football session has launched successfully at Plas Madoc Leisure Centre, drawing an impressive turnout from local residents. The new initiative welcomed community members, including long-time area natives, for an hour of football, conversation, and social bonding. Organisers emphasised that the event underscores the power of sport to unite people and enhance community spirit.
Leadership and Vision Behind the Initiative
The session was led by Community Agent Donna Thornley and UEFA B Licensed Community Development Officer Andrew Ruscoe, both of whom hailed the opening as a triumph and expressed excitement for future weeks. Donna Thornley highlighted the potential of these sessions to connect with men over 50, a demographic she often finds challenging to engage in her role.
"I'm really pleased to have been part of the setup and delivery today at Plas Madoc," she said. "In my role as Community Agent, I often struggle to engage males over 50, and these walking football sessions will help connect people socially."
She pointed to research indicating that regular social activities and light physical exercise can significantly boost mental wellbeing, reduce loneliness, and lower risks of heart disease and depression. Thornley added that this could eventually lead to the formation of a Cefn Mawr Walking Football Team.
Expert Support and Health Benefits
Andrew Ruscoe, who has experience in walking football development with Brickfield Rangers and Chester FC, was eager to introduce a similar opportunity in Cefn. "I've been involved in Walking Football development with Brickfield Rangers and Chester FC, both of which have gone from strength to strength," he commented. "I was keen to help bring something similar to Cefn — not only to support Donna's vision for sport in the community, but to help tackle obesity and sedentary lifestyles."
He noted that physical activities like walking football are proven to enhance cardiovascular health, mobility, and overall wellbeing while reducing long-term strain on NHS services. Ruscoe described football as a unique way to foster community cohesion.
Community Collaboration and Future Sessions
Organisers extended gratitude to Liam Jones of Active Wrexham, Sian Brierley of Wrexham Council's National Referral Exercise Scheme, and Cefn Community Council for their support in launching the initiative. Walking football sessions will now be held every Tuesday from noon to 1pm at Plas Madoc Leisure Centre, with organisers stressing that everyone is welcome to participate.
Interested individuals can simply attend on the day or contact Donna Thornley via donna@cefncommunitycouncil.gov.uk. Andrew Ruscoe is also available at 07503 515057 for further inquiries. The sessions aim to provide a sustainable platform for health and social interaction in the Cefn Mawr area.
