Player of the Month (April) - David Ellis & Lorraine Pratt
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As April comes to an end, we’re proud to once again shine a spotlight on the people who make Walking Football Scotland’s Players of the Month so special—once again in partnership with Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.
🌟 April Women’s Player of the Month
Lorraine Pratt (61) – Midlothian Ladies
🌟 April Men’s Player of the Month
David Ellis (52) – Glenbuck & Douglas Valley
Huge congratulations to David & Lorraine!
Both shared their reflections on what walking football means to them, highlighting the friendships, health benefits and sense of belonging that keep our community moving forward 💙⚽
Why did you get involved in walking football?
Lorraine: “I got involved in walking football for two reasons:
1 – I played football for years in my teens and couldn’t quite believe it when I discovered I could play again albeit walking
2 – I was going through quite a hard time in my life after my Dad was diagnosed with Dementia. It devastated our whole family but playing football twice a week with the loveliest of people helped me both mentally and physically to deal with everything that was happening.”
David: “I was coaching my son’s team within the club’s setup and had stopped playing for a number of years and missed the enjoyment of getting out and playing but it was taking longer to recover from all the diving about. One of the coaches had mentioned they were starting a walking football section and wondered if I’d come along. I thought it would be a great level to get back playing, but at a more sedate pace.”
What positive impact has walking football had on your life?
Lorraine: “It had a massive impact on my physical fitness, even managing to lose weight. But the social side has been amazing with lots of days and nights out and some tournaments abroad which are such fun.”
David: “It’s brought the enjoyment back of playing football in a team and as I’ve got older the passion hasn’t faded and walking football keeps me active doing a sport I love. It also brings together a great group of lads who feel the same and it’s almost like a relief valve where we can talk about issues we may have.”
What would you say to encourage others to come along?
Lorraine: “I would definitely encourage anyone to come along and try it, even if you have never played before, you will be made to feel very welcome.”
David: “Give it a go! You probably think your football ship has sailed but walking football gives you that opportunity to re-live your footballing youth at a slower pace and it gets the joints moving more than you think. Our team also encourages each other whatever your level and we are there to listen if you want to get something off your chest!”
