Sport · Salisbury
Salisbury RFC walking rugby squad expands as interest in inclusive sport grows
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Salisbury Rugby Club's walking rugby programme continues to thrive, hosting a competitive visit from Warwickshire's Old Leamingtonians after a busy summer of festivals.
Salisbury Rugby Club's walking rugby squad recently welcomed a visiting side from Old Leamingtonians in Warwickshire for an afternoon of competitive, friendly fixtures. The event, held on Saturday, 10 October, saw four teams take to the pitch, showcasing the format's growing popularity among local players.
The fixture acted as a prelude to the club's first XV match against Trowbridge and the associated Oktoberfest celebrations. It marked another milestone in what has been a busy calendar for the walking rugby team, which has prioritised broad participation and the development of new skills throughout the year.
The squad's recent activities have included extensive travel to compete in festivals across the region. Notably, in July, the team participated in the Kingswood RFC Walking Rugby Festival in Bristol, an event widely considered the largest of its kind, featuring 52 teams across 12 pitches. Closer to home, the Salisbury side has also represented the area at the Dorset and Wiltshire Festival in Devizes, alongside various club-led competitions in Exeter, Topsham, and at Old Guildfordians.
Behind the increase in matches and player numbers is a coordinated effort by the squad and specifically Richard Lloyd, who has been instrumental in managing the programme. Walking rugby is designed to retain the core tactical elements, teamwork, and social benefits of the traditional game while removing the physical intensity of contact, making it a viable option for those looking to return to the sport or try it for the first time.
The club maintains an open-door policy for the walking rugby programme, encouraging both men and women of all ability levels and backgrounds to participate. As the format continues to gain traction, Salisbury RFC aims to remain a focal point for the community to engage with the sport in an accessible and welcoming environment.
Source: Salisbury Journal — Sport · View original