Player of the Month (August) - Linsey Bunton & Steve Ross
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We’re keeping up with our monthly spotlight on Walking Football Scotland Players of the Month in partnership with Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.
For August the Walking Football Scotland Women’s Player of the Month is Linsey Bunten! Linsey, 42, plays with Whitletts Victoria.
Walking Football Scotland Men’s Player of the Month is Steve Ross! Steve, 67, plays with Dundee East CSC.
Congratulations Linsey and Steve! They shared their reflections on what walking football means to them.
Why did you get involved in walking football?
Linsey: “I got involved through a friend during a really difficult period in my life—my mum had just been diagnosed with brain cancer. Walking Football gave me something positive to focus on.”
Steve: “While reading an advert in a Dundee Untied match day programme the thought of playing football in any way was interesting, given that until that point I had only ever been a spectator. So I went along to a session locally and watched and at that that first visit and I was sold. It was a challenge for me as I never really played football in a team just as an occasional casual kick about and here I am 6 years on and loving the game”
I have always played at a competitive level and walking football allows you to take the game as serious or as leisurely as you like.”
What positive impact has walking football had on your life?
Linsey: “Walking football has had a big impact on my mental wellbeing—it helped me through a really tough time. It’s not just about the sport; it’s about having fun, staying active, and being part of something. There’s a real sense of belonging when you’re in a team—it feels like a family.”
Steve: “The obvious health benefits are the first thing that comes to mind. Playing Walking football is a fantastic way to keep the body mobile and the heart pumping and in a way that also creates a great social scene that can be enjoyed by a wide variety of people from all walks of life and with varying degrees of skill. Being as healthy as I can Physically and Mentally helps maintain a happy life overall.”
What would you say to encourage others to come along?
Linsey: “It’s 100% worth it—for the laughs, the friendships, and just getting out there. You meet great people, have fun, and it’s a brilliant way to stay active or get back into sport, no matter your age or ability.”
Steve: “I would say give it a go…. Leave any preconceptions on the side-lines and enjoy the experience of joining many others play a game that we love in a way that requires some slightly different skills to the big game. Come and enjoy the interaction with team mates and new friends”
