GALA Fairydean Rovers are holding a free taster session for anybody over 50 years of age who would like to try the new sport of walking football. 
The session takes place between 3pm and 4.30pm at the club’s 3G facility on Sunday, September 13. 
This is a slowed down version of the beautiful game has all the same rules apart from one. 
Players cannot run, only walk!
Club Secretary Graeme McIver said: “Walking Football is a developing form of football that is able to challenge participants while providing the physical and mental benefits of exercise. 
“Fundamentally, it is just your regular five- or six-a-side kickabout with one key rule; running or jogging is a foul.  By removing running, the speed of thinking and passing is not slowed but, the impact on joints and muscles is reduced to help decrease the chances of injury while playing. It’s all about fun, participation and exercise. 
“It’s perfect for anybody, men or women, who enjoys a challenge, wants to be more active, perhaps has suffered injury and have been told by their doctor or physio to start becoming active again or if they have hung their boots up years ago but miss playing with their mates.”
Walking football is a growing sport with clubs being established all over the UK following its introduction at Bury FC as a way of keeping older players involved in the game. 
Players have been participating in the Borders at sessions run by Lynne Marshall, Community Capacity Building Coordinator at Scottish Borders Council in Peebles and at Langlee Community Galashiels.
Gala Fairydean Rovers have been in discussions with Lynne and the current Gala Walking football team to bring them under the umbrella of the main club’s community engagement programme and the players were invited to last week’s home game against Stirling University as guests of the club.
Graeme added: “Sunday’s taster session is free and open to any male or female who would like to participate. Simply come prepared for outdoor football with suitable footwear - no flat bottomed trainers or metal blades - and wearing appropriate clothing.”
For more information call 07738 615 562.