A new sports discipline, “Walking Soccer” is set to be introduced in the country soon.
This was disclosed by Foster Enam Dagadu, a sports journalist and administrator and an executive member of the Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF).
The new sports discipline started in Nigeria some 3 years ago, and is currently being played in Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco and Rwanda.
In an interview with Ghananewsonline.com.gh, Dagadu said a nine member delegation from the Waka Football Association (WFA ) of Nigeria were currently in Ghana to hold talks with football administrators and authorities to pave the way for the smooth take off of the new sports discipline in the country.
The sports journalist explained that the game is for persons over the age of fifty(50) who love walking and soccer and an injury free game as there’s no contact during playing, adding that it has also been found to help people with parkinson’s disease and helps to improve overall wellness.
He called on all soccer lovers and former players who couldn’t make their marks in real soccer to take advantage of the new discipline to continue enjoying the game and to realize their dreams.
Dagadu said his outfit was working hard to ensure the full implementation and development of the new sports discipline which he believes holds a lot of advantages for the country calling for commitment from all stakeholders.
“I stand for the development of sports and I believe with my many years of experience as a sports journalist, manager and administrator, I can work hand in hand with all stakeholders to advance Walking Soccer in Ghana,” Dagadu said.
The Nigeria delegation which is expected to spend a few days in Ghana with the aim of growing the game in the country and beyond, is made up of Godson Uti,
Emmanuel Ibru,Tori Adelanwa and Ugo Ugorji.
The rest are Amaechi Nwanze, Dominic Mordi, Ugo Ibekwe, Yomi Adesiyakan and Samuel Kwazema.
Quick Facts About Walking Soccer:
Walking soccer started in Nigeria about 3 years ago following the formation of the Waka Football Association (WFA).
The discipline has since grown considerably, receiving wide patronage in Nigeria.
• The first Walking Soccer league in Africa is currently ongoing in Lagos, Nigeria
• The first International friendly Walking Soccer match between Nigeria and Rwanda was played in 2023.
• The inaugural Walking Soccer World Nations Cup was played in England in 2023 where Nigeria finished 9th among 64 nations in the 50+ category
• Tournaments are played in 3 categories for males and females, 50+, 60+ and 70+
• The game is currently being played in Africa, in Nigeria, Egypt, Rwanda, and Morocco.
• The first women international Walking Soccer friendly tournament in Africa was held this March in Marakesh, Morocco.
• Nigeria is a member of the federation of International Walking Football Associations, (FIWFA) currently based in England.
• The 2nd world nations Cup is scheduled for 2024 and will be held in Europe.
By Leo Nelson || Ghananewsonline.com.gh