THE PLAYERS
Meet a selection of our players & click on their name to read their story.
Kevin ClarksonChairman
Kevin Clarkson
Club Position: Chairman Playing Position: Defender
Why WF: I started walking football in early 2015. I had always played a variety of competitive sports in my younger days and I thought that this would be a great way to get back into football. It is a fantastic game, it is great for fitness and we have a great bunch of lads who turn out every week.
Our Club caters for those who want to just play for fun to those who want to play in tournaments with a real competitive edge. Try it.....you won't be disappointed!
Karl JonesPlayer
Karl Jones
Club Position: Player Playing Position: Forward
Why football with the Flyers ? : Whilst the club sessions are great, especially the seniors / running game are fun with a good bunch of lads and great for fitness my real love is for competitive walking football, its fast and very competitive against players/teams of a very high standard and arguably harder physically than regular 11 aside.
Quote : "Think walking football is too slow ? .... try it ! "
Clint WalmsleyPlayer
Clint Walmsley
Club Position: Player Position: Defence
Why walking football. After 10yrs or so on the side line coaching and managing other players I thought my playing days were behind me, then I saw an advert for walking football at Fleetwood, went to my first training session and found it was fun and everyone was friendly. So give it a go you just might be surprised how much you like it.
George GreenallPlayer
George Greenall
Club Position: Player Position: Defender
Why walking football? : As a youngster all I wanted to do was play football whether in the back alley or out on a field. I gave up playing at a relatively young age and suffered many years with back problems. But as soon as I hit 50 I found walking football and it has taken me back the good old days - its like being young again ISH!!! - it has given me a new lease of life.... my confidence grows when I get on the pitch something I always struggled with all my life.
Quote : "I challenge anyone to try it not to like it! - it will change your life. Not only will you improve your fitness levels you will find yourself with an extended family"
Eric JenkinsonTreasurer
Eric Jenkinson
Club Position:Treasurer Position: Midfield
I had to finish playing football at 26 with a knee injury, which worsened until it was sorted by surgery in 2010. Walking football provides the exercise, competition, banter and everything else associated with team sports that I really enjoyed.
Don't knock it until you've tried it!
Dave HirstSecretary/Vice Treasurer
Dave Hirst
Club Position: Secretary/Vice Treasurer Position: Defender
"Started playing Walking Football with Fleetwood following my retirement in 2016. Fully enjoy the sessions and played competitively until last year. Now it’s just the training sessions on Sunday, Wednesday and Friday due to issues with ageing knees and muscles. Still one of the highlights of the week attending the sessions, great set of lads at all sessions, not to mention the social events we attend."
Richard AlmondPlayer
Richard Almond
Club Position: Committee Member Position: Midfield
Recently converted to walking football from setting up a 5 a side group to help with fitness, however was unable to keep up with all the youngsters!!
Very welcoming club ,with a great set of guys ,which has really helped me to get over recent post traumatic stress following family bereavement.
Really enjoy the tournaments which can be very competitive!
The club is a credit to all those involved especially the ones that obviously spend a considerable amount of time to get it where it is.
Long may it continue!
Sam TruesdalePlayer
Sam Truesdale
Club Position: Player Position: Midfield
Having played football for many years I was initially sceptical when a friend suggested I join the Fleetwood Town Flyers walking football team but I have been delighted to find the various weekly sessions well organised and people from a range of age groups and backgrounds taking part.
The tournaments are much more challenging and competitive than I had expected but also extremely enjoyable. The club also offers a variety of social events which again are a credit to the club. I would thoroughly recommend walking football and especially Fleetwood Town Flyers to anyone looking for a new challenge or just to meet like-minded people.
Rob BarlowPlayer
Rob Barlow
Club Position: Player Position: Defence/Wingback/Midfield
Since joining Fleetwood Town Flyers FC. in 2016, it has played a vital role in helping me with my anxiety and mental health issues. Through these difficult times, playing football again, which I love and being part of such a fantastic club, with such a great bunch of guys, continues to open doors, both socially and with respect to my physical wellbeing.
Derek WiddupPlayer
Derek Widdup
Club Position: Player Position: Defender
How I started walking football :-
First of all I can explain how I was a few years ago. I was a kind of recluse my day comprised of great difficulty getting out of bed having breakfast going to shop for a paper in the car, in the car so I wouldn't meet any one and have to talk . Home then curl up on settee and mope all day feeling all the world was against me. I had a knock on my door a neighbour of ours had fallen, he was also a stroke victim I was asked to take him to the walk in centre at Fleetwood, while I was waiting for him I was sat alone and just happened to see a poster on the notice board WALKING FOOTBALL. I got home and plucked up the courage to ring the number. I think I spoke to Jason Sharp who explained what was needed for me to attend the sessions. The next step was to attend. I missed the first three sessions I got ready but couldn't`t find the courage to turn up. Finally my wife Brenda gave me an ultimatum and when she gives you one of them you have to obey.
It was strange when I got to Poolfoot for the first time all the chaps were stood talking and me a few yards away, then I think it was Mike who came to me and asked if I was new and he introduced me to the women from Age concern who took my details and then it was off to start my first session of walking football. As well as the depression problems I also have a balance problem and every time I turned I fell over, but all the lads were great there was always someone there to help you up see if you were ok . After the first session when I got home it felt like I had two lumps instead of thighs , I think I had tried too hard to impress and was suffering for it . I found that even though I was a regular footballer in my younger days I had to learn how to kick a ball again . This took me a few weeks and as my ability improved so did my confidence , from being very quiet and not saying a boo to a goose I became a right gobby so and so.
I don`t think that the football alone is the total cure for my problem but it certainly helps . As well as the mental side of things a few years ago I had two knee replacements and I thought I wouldn't`t be able to do anything sporty again I was even a bit reluctant to kick a ball with my grandson. Now I feel like I am 27 again and I can fully recommend anyone over the age of 50 to seriously try walking football it has given me the confidence to meet with people and have a normal conversation without shying away and standing in the corner.
The crack that we have is second to none we all try to get the better of one another with joking and messing about which only adds to the benefit you get from spending time with some great guys. I must state that on its own walking football is not a cure for my problems but it's a big help. I still have to take what I call dizzy pills and loopy pills , making fun about anything and everything is now a priority because that's what walking football is all about .
Another saying comes to mind (you can only get out what you put in) I try to attend all sessions and games even if I do not play as just attending is as much fun.
Steve RoylePlayer
Steve Royle
Club Position: Player Position:Midfield
I had a love of football from an early age and played up to my teens but due to work commitments it wasn't
possible to play (working away from home) so some years later I now have time to renew my passion for
the game playing with Fleetwood Town Flyers has given me an opportunity l
thought had passed.
My fitness levels have improved tenfold & look forward to the weekly sessions so
if you are eager for a challenge give walking football a serious thought
with a very well run club & great bunch of fellow players.
Mike HillPlayer
Mike Hill
Club Position: Player Position: Forward
Why walking football? : I have been playing walking football for a few years now and its a great way of keeping fit.
Harry GillPlayer
Harry Gill
Club Position: Player Position: Forward
Since I started playing walking football a few years ago, I have lost 2 stone in weight. Feel so much fitter and 15 years younger.
Whatever your skill or fitness level you are made really welcome and in no time at all you are one of the "boys". Easy to join, just turn up and say hello to one of the Flyers. It really is the "Field Of Dreams". Great bunch of guys Your new friends are waiting to meet you.
Pete SmithPlayer
Pete Smith
Club Position: Player Position: Goalkeeper
I started playing walking football over 7 years ago after undergoing major heart surgery. Since then I’ve never looked back and have played competitive football at all age levels from 50 to 65. Beside the fitness factor it’s a great way to meet new friends. The club also runs many events which are always great fun.
Mike PriestleyPlayer
Mike Priestley
Club Position: Player Position: Utility
I used to play rugby and football in my younger days but as I aged these sports became too difficult. Then I discovered WF at Poolfoot. With both day and evening matches, it was possible to play whilst I was working and then when I retired either was possible. The friendship within the club is amazing and the camaraderie both on the pitch or at the regular social events is 2nd to none. Give it try, improve your fitness and self confidence. I'm 70 now but there's a vast age range from 50 to 80. Come on, join us Fleetwood Town Flyers FC.
Bob MackiePlayer
Bob Mackie
Club Position: Player Position: Various
Why Walking Football
When I saw the advert in The Fleetwood Weekly News for a chance to play Walking Football for the over 50s, I thought it too good to be true, especially for a 65 year old with an arthritic knee and foot.
As I left home for my first session my wife said that I "looked like a kid in a sweety shop" When I got home she said "you could do with a couple of paramedics to get you out the car" Since then, my fitness has improved ---- I can now get out of the car on my own!
Seriously, on occasion, I've been pulled up for running! Says it all really!
The facilities are tremendous, the camaraderie among the lads is great - as is the teamwork and banter - oh, and of course the nights out.
Come and have a go. You never know what you can achieve at any age.
Neil WillettsPlayer
Neil Willetts
Club Position: Player Position: Midfield
Playing walking football has created a good outlet for fitness and friendship.
Age is just a number so if you are 50 plus come and join us and enjoy the game.
David GorePlayer
David Gore
Club Position: Player Position: Midfield
Having always played Sunday league and 5-a-side I started walking football as a way of playing at a reasonable standard with guys my age. Win or lose I enjoy the slightly faster pace games on a Friday evening and the friendly banter on and off the field.
Quote: Give it a go, you'll have fun and once in a while remember you were a half-decent player!
Ian ManassiePlayer
Ian Manassie
Club Position: Player Position: Left Back
I started playing walking football with Fleetwood Town Flyers a few years ago and it has changed my life, honestly. I lost over two stone, quickly became addicted and I try to play four times a week after thinking I would never get the chance to play football again.
Its a great bunch of guys to play football with, great camaraderie and they have even given me a nickname of The Rhino!!
Gary FowlerPlayer
Gary Fowler
Club Position: Player Position: Forward
In March 2017 my brother-in-law contacted me to say he’d joined the walking football group at Fleetwood Town Flyers and asked if I was interested. Well...I was, so I enrolled as soon as I could. I was greeted by a great bunch of guys and was made to feel very welcome.
Throughout my time with the Flyers, I’ve made some good friends had some great times on the pitch and also socially away from the training ground.
I would (and often do) thoroughly recommend anybody to come along and join in. The group really does accommodate all levels of fitness and ability and provides a real opportunity to mix with like minded (football) people in a great social environment.
Quote: As Nike say “Just Do it”
Gary PrestonPlayer
Gary Preston
Club Position: Player Position: Forward
I have been a member for a few years now, like many of my team mates I have had my share of life's problems having been told many years ago that most sports would be a thing of the past following back surgery to recently looking after my father and losing him to dementia. Coming along to our weekly sessions was one of the best things I ever did, the fun you have and the friends you make are something you can't buy and I totally recommend it to anyone who is unsure or nervous about giving it a go. I promise you it's something you won't regret.
Stewart SavagePlayer
Stuart Savage
Club Position: Player Position: Midfield
I moved to Cleveleys a few years ago having retired not knowing anybody. I had played football all my adult life as well as other sports, the first thing I did once I settled in was to see what sport I could join in. The first thing that popped up was walking football. I had never played it and wondered if it would be for me. I enquired on line and was invited down so I thought I would give it a go. A few years later I'm still playing and have made a lot of friends.
The best thing is there's all ages of players all with different styles all wanting to keep fit and enjoy the games. There's all different days and times to suit everybody's lifestyle. There's not just the football there's the different people you meet and all the other non football events that are put on. Look at the times and days and give it a go you'll be surprised at what you can achieve!
Graham PickupPlayer
Graham Pickup
Club Position: Player Position: Midfield
I have been into football since 10 years of age. I played a good standard until 1969 when I joined the Royal Navy. I played many games whilst abroad and was a player in the Royal Navy team. On leaving the RN I carried on playing up to 1984 when I played in my last season. I then moved to Somerset with the intention of retiring from football. Then I got my 6 year old son playing and I was asked if I had ever played, I answered yes and the result was I started playing again. I played until 1999 when I did retire and went into managing and coaching, but I still played competitive 5-a-side indoors. This stopped when I moved up north in 2015. I have been wanting to do something to keep me active and get my fitness back. I have never played walking football before but thought it would be a good way to get back into something I love doing. It's not as easy as first imagined but I would recommend it to anyone. It is good from a social aspect and there is great camaraderie and banter with your team mates.
Steve KessellPlayer
Steve Kessell
Club Position: Player Position: Defence/Midfield
I’ve been a regular player since my teens, and when I reached 50 I joined a group in Oldham of similar ages who played running football(in my case - trotting lol). In 2015 I underwent a Discectomy and Fusion at C6/C7, I then thought my playing days were over, although I still joined in. When I retired in 2020 I “emigrated” to Knott End on Sea and sourced Fleetwood Town Flyers Walking Football. After my first session I knew it was for me. I love the competitive games we play, but equally I enjoy the weekly sessions which are attended by many differing standard players.
I strongly feel that all those who play weekly should walk off after each session saying “I enjoyed that” thankfully they do. The banter is also good fun. If you’re considering something for your fitness and social calendar, I urge you to come along to Poolfoot Farm and join in. It’s a brilliant set up, and the company is fantastic.
Mike MullinerPlayer
Mike Mulliner
Club Position: Player Position: Midfield
Football has always played a great part of my life whether watching or playing it.After retirement and not having played for several years I realised I needed to get back into the game I love playing.I happened to go to a Fleetwood Town home game and was handed a leaflet about the 'Flyers'who were looking for players.It was a 'light bulb' moment.A few weeks later I went down to Poolfoot training ground and met other players,and was given a very warm welcome.A great bunch of guys all with the same objective.Its a great way to keep fit,meet new friends and good for your wellbeing.The regular social events are also very good.My advice for anyone considering walking football.
"GIVE IT A GO OR YOU'LL NEVER KNOW".
Ged HayesPlayer
Ged Hayes
Club Position: Player Position: Defender
Why walking football? Always loved playing football but gave up at thirty. Thirty years later over weight, unfit with health problems. Saw an advert in the library, thought about it for a few weeks before actually picking up the phone for details. The hardest step was the first week, I was made to feel welcome from that first day. Enjoy the football, great bunch of people, made friends and good social life, bonus lost weight, fitter and health improved.
Quote. “The first step is the hardest, give it a try, you won’t regret it.”
Terry FearnleyPlayer
Terry Fearnley
Club Position: Player Position: Defender
Enjoyed various sports including footy when younger and continued until mid 40's playing squash (Not the 1940's)!
At one point I was the highest ranked squash player in our house.
Always thought I'd never play "The beautiful game" again.
I took part in my first session about five years ago. I was quite nervous daft as it seems, I was 65 for goodness sake!
Anyway everybody was very welcoming and help me settle in. I was reassured to notice that other players were like me and forgot team mates names from week to week...or even match to match! I fell over a couple of times, brain and feet not in sync, this was accompanied by "Man down" cries.
I got fitter in the following weeks/months and now hear cries of ("he's running ref!)
Walking football releases the younger me and I still get a buzz if I score or make a save or even make an accurate pass.
Come on fellas give Walking Football a go I bet you've still got your boots in the loft!
Steve KillickPlayer
Steve Killick
Club Position: Player Position: Midfield
I use to play a lot of Indoor 5-a-side football whilst I was working, on retiring and moving to Thornton-Cleveleys I started to look around for something to keep me fit and came across Fleetwood Flyers.
I was made welcome straight from the start and enjoy the walking and running sessions.
It is extremely well organised and you get to meet a great bunch of people.
I would advise anybody over the age of 50 to give it a go.
Ian AmosPlayer
Ian Amos
Club Position: Player Position: Goalkeeper
I thought my football days were over years ago so concentrated on cricket. When I heard of walking football I came down and met a smashing bunch of guys, it keeps me fit and we have competitive matches which keeps us motivated. I play goalie and really enjoy it. We also have great nights out and a super Xmas party to look forward to. Give it a try!
