Guildfordians Walk This Way
Almost six years ago, Guildfordians RFC decided to introduce walking rugby and it has grown into an established and popular section within the club.
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The walking rugby squad has attracted older club players looking to slow down, younger players as part of their reconditioning while returning from injury, and former players who thought they had played their last game. Some have never played rugby before and, while most are of more mature years, there’s a number of younger players too.
Mark Grubb, walking rugby chair, said: “It’s great having folks of all ages and abilities, regardless of gender or background, playing together and enjoying one another’s company. I think we’ve all realised the obvious benefits of regular, enjoyable exercise, as well as the value of social activity to mental wellbeing.
“We’ve attracted new members, extremely valuable for a small community club, but I never anticipated the way so many of these new members would contribute so positively into the life of the club. Five of them have begun helping with coaching of our minis and junior squads, one has even become our minis chair. We’ve had players come to us from as far afield as North London."
At the start of this season, Guildfordians ran a Mutts & Mongrels event at Stoke Park. Enjoying the day were players from the Chelsea Pensioners Scarlet Warriors team, with an average age of 73, some having left the Army 20-30 years ago.
“We agreed then to sort out home and away fixtures. We had a three-way fixture with Esher and the Scarlet Warriors at Guildfordians in January and recently went to play them at The Royal Hospital Chelsea. The Pensioners really looked after us, we were given a full tour of The Royal Hospital before playing some competitive and very enjoyable games of walking rugby. The Scarlet Warriors then welcomed us back to their well-appointed club and bar. It was a fantastic day for all which we won’t forget in a hurry,” says Mark
Guildfordians RFC Walking Rugby are always ready to welcome new members. Training sessions are run (walked) on Sunday lunchtimes and Tuesday evenings. If you want to know more, email Guildfordians RFC.
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