Sport · Salisbury
Salisbury Walking Football Club finds success at international tournament
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
A squad from Salisbury Walking Football Club has returned from Sicily after a strong showing at the inaugural Conca d'Oro International Walking Football Tournament.
Members of the Salisbury Walking Football Club recently represented Wiltshire on the international stage, participating in the first Conca d'Oro International Walking Football Tournament held in Palermo, Sicily. The event, which took place between 9 and 11 October, combined a medical conference focusing on the health benefits of the sport with a competitive tournament organised by the LND, the Sicily Regional Committee of the Italian Football Federation.
Ten players travelled to Italy to represent the club, where they demonstrated strong form throughout the group stages. Finishing as winners of Group B with 10 points, the Salisbury team remained unbeaten in open play throughout the competition. After securing a 1-0 victory in a closely contested semi-final, the side progressed to the final against the Heart of Palermo. The match ended in a goalless draw, with the Italian hosts ultimately winning the trophy following a penalty shootout.
Beyond the competitive results, the tournament emphasised the physical and social health benefits of the sport. Several players from the Salisbury squad shared personal experiences detailing how walking football has assisted them in regaining their fitness and confidence while navigating serious health challenges, including cancer, brain injuries and heart surgery.
A spokesperson for the club reflected on the trip as a significant achievement, stating that the team successfully left a positive impression on the Italian walking football scene. The organisers and Italian league officials expressed interest in a future exchange, with potential plans for an Italian delegation to visit Salisbury to learn more about the club's community-focused model.
Julie Freemantle, the club's sole female player at the tournament, was also recognised for her performance while guest-playing for a Rest of the World women's team. The club is now encouraging local residents who are interested in the sport to get involved.
Those wishing to join the club or find out more about local sessions can contact the team at salisburywalkingfootball@gmail.com or visit the official Salisbury Walking Football Facebook page.
Source: Salisbury Journal — Sport · View original