Player of the Month (June) - Cindy Halliday & David Ampleford
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As June 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.
🌟 June Women’s Player of the Month
Cindy Halliday (69) – Saints Kirkcudbright & Scotland
🌟 June Men’s Player of the Month
David Ampleford (43) – Universal Wanderers
Huge congratulations to Cindy and David!
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?
Cindy: “I’ve loved football all my life, but when I was at school, girls were not allowed to play in teams so when my children came along, I decided to do the next best thing and become a football coach. In 2023 I saw an advert for Walking Football in Kirkcudbright so decided to go along and try. I was hooked! From there, with the backing of Saint Cuthberts F.C, I set up a women’s group and now coach them weekly and encourage others to come along and try it out.”
David: “I got involved after my Step-Dad, Finlay took me along to a session at Inverkip. I really enjoyed it. I also had a follow-up game with Alzheimers Scotland on the indoor pitch at Hampden. I started playing for The Gerihatricks in EK who kindly let me join in their sessions. I decided to set up my own club to try and help improve mental health in younger people in the area. We set up just before Covid. I was worried that Covid might have impacted the team but we came back even stronger. The team has really grown and we’ve become a family. We have A LOT of fun while we play and try to help our opponents enjoy their game too. ”
What positive impact has walking football had on your life?
Cindy: “Walking Football has introduced me to so many new friends, improved my fitness and made me realise that age is no barrier. I have just had the honour of representing Scotland in Switzerland and the memories made there will last forever. This would never have happened had I not got involved with Walking Football Scotland.”
David: “Its had a great impact. Having broken my heels in 2012, I never thought I’d be able to enjoy football again but here we are. I really like it. Sometimes on Tuesdays if I’ve had a tough day at work its tough to motivate myself to get along but every time I do, I am so glad I did as I leave much happier.”
What would you say to encourage others to come along?
Cindy: “If you are over 40 years old and would like to improve your fitness, help your mental well-being, meet new friends, and play walking football in a safe environment, then please contact your local team as you would be made most welcome. You don’t even need to have kicked a ball to be able to take part. This fantastic game is designed for all abilities and the rules for Walking Football make it an easy game to master for everyone. And remember…it’s never too late to try!”
David: “Its a great opportunity to get out the house, do exercise and meet other people. A load of fun too.”
