England Walking Football February Newsletter

A Warm Welcome from the England Walking Football Committee

Welcome to the second edition of our regular newsletter! We are thrilled to share exciting updates and developments as we continue to grow and evolve. At the core of our mission is a commitment to excellence, inclusivity, professionalism, and community spirit, ensuring that England Walking Football remains a beacon in the sport.

Latest Updates & Announcements

Sponsorship Success!

We are delighted to announce Amber Windows as our first official sponsor! A massive thank you to Brendan Maxwell and his team for their invaluable support. Their backing is a crucial step in helping us develop the sport further.

For more information about Amber Windows please visit their website: uPVC Windows, Doors, Conservatories & More | Amber Windows

We are thrilled to announce that Colchester Phoenix Walking Football Club has generously sponsored England Walking Football. Their support will significantly enhance our programs and opportunities within the walking football community. Thank you, Colchester Phoenix, for your invaluable contribution!

Colchester Phoenix have had two players, Ray Windard and Julian Lamb, represent the England Walking Football (EWF) squad since its inception, showcasing the club’s commitment to developing top-level talent within the sport. Their achievements reflect the high standards and dedication of Colchester Phoenix, reinforcing its reputation as a hub for skilled and passionate walking footballers.

For more information about Colchester Phoenix Walking Football Club, visit their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/803804736458900/

We have also received a third donation from an individual who prefers to remain anonymous - Thank you!

Expanding Our Social Media Presence

Our social media channels are growing rapidly, and we are pleased to announce our blue-tick verification on X, reinforcing our professional presence. Please follow and share our platforms to help us reach a wider audience:

Note: These platforms are for everyone, and we rely on your input to create and share content. I want to ensure no one feels singled out or overlooked, as some may prefer not to have publicity.

Please encourage all teams and managers to share relevant updates with us, especially during tournaments when multiple teams are playing. This will help ensure everyone is included and represented fairly.

Tournaments & Competitions

Upcoming Tournaments

  • Clacton Tournament – 25th May
    We have identified an Over 50s-only tournament for St. George’s to enter. Managers are encouraged to organise and manage tournament access for their teams.
  • International Summer Tournament
    We are actively seeking a prestigious venue to host our very own international tournament in 2026. More details to follow soon!
  • Rome Tournament & Rules Reminder
    For those participating in Rome, please ensure compliance with the following key rule:
    “No player will be allowed on the pitch, whether in competition or training, unless they can demonstrate that they possess a valid sports medical certificate.”
    Please review all tournament rules accordingly.

No need to worry; the host nation is preparing a disclaimer for us to sign.

Training & Equipment Updates

Upcoming Training Sessions

We have secured Castle Vale Stadium for our training session on 2nd March. Full schedules can be found on our website and via the Stack Team App.

Equipment & Session Management

  • Managers and Directors of Football will oversee sessions independently.
  • Equipment will be provided - please notify Alex Marsden if any additional items are required.

Kit & Membership Details

As we build our organisation from the ground up, players will need to purchase their own kits for both home and away matches. Each kit will include:

  • Player’s surname and squad number.
  • Squad numbers will serve as membership numbers (Men’s and Women’s teams will have separate allocations).

New AVEC Kits have been ordered.

Caps for Overseas Tournaments

Caps will be available for all overseas tournaments. Players will need to self-fund these embroidered caps, which will feature our new logo and the player’s name. Those heading to Rome can now place their orders.

Club Development & Initiatives

Committee & Leadership Structure

We are pleased to introduce the new England Walking Football Committee:

  • Chairperson: Brendan Maxwell
  • Director of Football (Men): Carl Clinton
  • Director of Football (Women): Gail Redston
  • Assistant Director of Football (Women): Wendy Benson
  • Welfare Officer: Amanda Bell
  • Treasury & Administration: Alex Marsden
  • Commercial Director: Julian Lamb (responsible for sponsorship and funding)
  • Discipline Officers: Dave Bendall & Lesley Wright
  • IT Support: In house

Brendan intends to step down as Chairperson in three years, ensuring fresh leadership. The new Chairperson will be elected via an Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Key Objectives for England Walking Football

  1. Promote friendship and sportsmanship with other Nations.
  2. Organise an international tournament in year three at Wembley or another professional stadium.
  3. Establish a legacy of fair sportsmanship and a strong partnership with the FA.

New Club Shop Initiative

We are exploring the launch of leisurewear and training gear via our website. This will begin with an initial trial, and we welcome your thoughts and feedback on this initiative.

Player Profiles Coming Soon!

We will be adding player profiles to our website in the coming months. To ensure a professional look, we will wait until new kits are available before proceeding with this exciting feature.

Easy Fundraising – Support England Walking Football!

Did you know you can support England Walking Football for free every time you shop online? With Easy Fundraising, you can help us raise money with every purchase from over 8,000 retailers, including eBay, Argos, John Lewis, ASOS, and M&S—at no extra cost to you!

How to Get Started:

  1. Join for free at: Easy Fundraising - England Walking Football
  2. Shop online as usual through the platform.
  3. Retailers will donate a percentage of your purchase to our cause—at no extra cost to you!

Your support is greatly appreciated, and every contribution helps us grow and develop!

Stay Connected & Get Involved!

We’re always looking for new opportunities, feedback, and ideas from our community. If you have any suggestions or would like to get more involved, feel free to reach out through our website or social media channels.

Thank you for being part of the England Walking Football journey - together, we are building something special!

Best regards,

The England Walking Football Committee