Player of the Month (January) - Frances Snedden & John McDonald
/
As we step into our third year of celebrating Walking Football Scotland’s Players of the Month, we’re proud to continue shining a spotlight on the people who make our game so special—once again in partnership with Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.
🌟 January Women’s Player of the Month
Frances Snedden (60) – Stenhousemuir
🌟 January Men’s Player of the Month
John McDonald (74) – Dundee East CSC
Huge congratulations to Fran & John!
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.
Here’s to another year of celebrating the people at the heart of Walking Football Scotland 💙⚽
Why did you get involved in walking football?
Frances: “After my dad died, I was looking for something to fill up the time I usually spent looking after him, so when I saw the advert for Stenhousemuir ladies’ session on Facebook I thought I would go and give it a try. Football was not a sport that I ever saw myself playing but after the first session I was hooked.”
John: “After suffering very unexpected heart attack in 2012 and spending 6 nights In hospital having stents fitted, I had 4 months rehab. At the end of 2012 I found out about a demo Walking football programme in Dundee City Centre and sessions starting at Douglas Community Centre delivered by Dundee Leisure and Culture.
What positive impact has walking football had on your life?
Frances: “It has made me fitter and healthier, and I now do numerous sessions a week. I have made lots of new friends and that has led me to attend various social activities. Walking Football is a real mood lifter as having so much fun on and off the pitch. It has made me more confident and it’s honestly one of the best things I have done! I get withdrawals if I miss any sessions. ”
John: “I’ve been hooked - back kicking a ball at age 60. Then in my seventies I was diagnosed with colon Cancer resulting in surgery and chemotherapy before minor surgery on my prostrate.
I am now 74 and still playing three times a week at different sessions and in leagues at 50, 60 and 65 age groups.
I also manage the North East Region over 60's team.”
What would you say to encourage others to come along?
Frances: “Give it a go! You can learn a new skill and have lots of fun whilst doing it. All the ladies I’ve met along the way have all been so encouraging and supportive. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t kicked a ball before, I hadn’t but it’s so much fun learning.”
John: “For anyone who thinks they are over the hill, get the boots out and start again.
I would recommend it to anyone at any fitness level, come along and give it a go.”
