Dads get a kick out of soccer sessions
EVERY week, groups of dads get together for a local kickabout.
Team Kickabout, a Community Interest Company, was founded in 2018 by Graham Sims.
He wanted to create an easy, accessible and fun way for dads to get out and socialise with other dads, enjoy the mental health and physical health benefits of group exercise.
Having started with just four dads, the group has expanded across Lancashire, with sessions going on in Accrington, Blackpool, Warton, Skelmersdale, Fleetwood, Kirkham, Buckshaw Village and even as far away as Aberdeen.
The Accrington sessions are held on Tuesdays at 9pm at Stanley Sports Hub.
“Nowadays, more and more dads are being shut off from their friends as they don’t have children and begin to suffer from weight gain and mental health issues like anxiety and social inclusion,” Graham said.
“You find that not many football groups are specifically for dads; there are some particularly for men or for women but not dads.
“It’s great to have that niche because no matter your ability or who you are, as soon as you step on the pitch you have something in common with every player.
“It’s just fun and friendly, there are no silly tackles allowed because everyone wants to go to work the next day and no one wants to go home injured. It’s just about getting through the hour and having a laugh with some friends. Most of the dads go to the pub afterwards as well, which is another great way for them to bond. For an hour a week, you’re not a husband or a father or even an employee, you’re a football player and part of a team.”