Walk on the park
Football at a slower pace
In terms of Lanarkshire football Jim Chapman has seen it, done it and probably has the t-shirt.
So he is ideal to be head of football in the community at Motherwell FC Community Trust.
The 52-year-old has been involved in youth set-ups at the Scottish Football Association, Airdrie and Hamilton Accies and has played for Albion Rovers and Dumbarton, while also having stints as manager at those two clubs, Annan Athletic and Clyde.
Among other roles Jim is trying to develop walking football in Motherwell and to encourage more people to go along to weekly sessions.
“Some people feel physically it’s still football but it is a modified version and it’s not about your ability,” he said.
“Walking football is for various groups but there is a targeted audience and it’s mainly targeting males who are 50-plus to begin with.
“We all grew up loving the game but it’s a modified version. Regardless of your ability, you can come and play and enjoy yourself.
“There are a lot more benefits than just taking part in football.
“It ’ s all about the social side, the physical improvements to their health as well, the social skills, mixing with people and the inclusion of everybody there.
“That’s part of our job in the community: to make sure we provide all these kinds of opportunities.”
Jim added: “It’s still relatively new here at Motherwell. Although walking football is widespread across the country and nationally, we’re still very much in the embryonic stages of walking football for our community.
“The guys are now starting to come along.
“They’ve taken part in a couple of festivals, which is good, and we’re generating a bit more interest in it.”
Sessions are on Mondays from 1- 2pm and Jim conceded: “We recognise that some people might still be working so we’re looking to put this activity on after work, maybe on a Wednesday.”
Anyone who wants to try walking football can just turn up for the Monday session at the Astroturf pitch behind Fir Park’s south stand at 1pm.