Newcastle United legends debut at Foundation Walking Football League celebration

Newcastle United Foundation welcomed more than 200 players to the North East for its annual Walking Football League event, as teams from across England and Scotland came together for a celebration of competition and community.

Thirty-six teams of men and women aged 40 and over took part in a full day of football designed to support physical and mental wellness and social connection made possible by the Foundation’s walking football provision.

And this year’s event held during the summer was made extra special with the debut of a Newcastle Legends squad with former Newcastle United players Papiss Cissé, Nobby Solano, David Kelly and Steve Watson lining up together in black and white.

The former Magpies also paid tribute to the late legendary Newcastle United manager Kevin Keegan by wearing home shirts featuring ‘Keegan 7’ on the back.

Rob Burns, Football Development Manager at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “Walking football continues to show how powerful sport can be in bringing people together.

“For many of our participants, it offers a lot more than the chance to compete at a session or tournament – it’s a way to stay active, meet new people and feel part of a community.

“This year especially, participants had the chance to not only meet their Newcastle heroes but to play against them which we’re confident has been an unforgettable experience for them. We’re grateful to the legends team for being part of the tournament and for being so generous with their time.

“It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the game in such a positive environment.”

Walking Football is part of Newcastle United Foundation’s health and wellbeing programme, supporting communities across the North East through free sessions delivered under its Be A Game Changer campaign.

Be A Game Changer, funded by Newcastle City Council, encourages fans and communities to talk openly about mental health, to access support and prioritise physical and mental wellbeing.

Through the campaign, the Foundation supports people with activities including Walking Football, Football Talks, health checks, wellbeing workshops and personal development programmes.

Around 88% of Walking Football participants report reduced social isolation through the programme, while Be A Game Changer has supported more than 10,000 people with physical and mental wellbeing awareness.

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