Nottingham footballing legend and City of Football ambassador Viv Anderson was on hand last night to launch a brand new series of football sessions for men over 40 who want to get back into the game. The former Nottingham Forest and England defender was at Southglade Leisure Centre on Wednesday evening for the first ‘Rusty Returners’ session, which proved to be a huge success with crowds of people in attendance on the night. The sessions are being put on in partnership with Nottingham City Council’s FREEsport programme and will take place every Wednesday evening from 7. 30pm – 8. 30pm. Viv Anderson said: “It was great to see so many people here tonight who want to get involved in football and inspire others across Nottinghamshire to do the same. “It’s not just people who want to get back into playing we’ve seen, but there’s also been a few guys who are here trying football for the first time in their lives, which is amazing. “It’s never too late to take up football and I don’t see why anyone at any age can’t come and give it a go if it’s something they want to try. “For general fitness it’s the perfect sport, and what’s great about these City of Football events is that there’s never any pressure. There are lots of different levels here and people from all backgrounds. “The City of Football team are promoting football in the right way and making it simple for those living in Nottinghamshire to get involved. ”
Katie Gibson, Programme and Partner Coordinator at Nottingham City of Football said: “We were delighted to have Viv Anderson on board again for the Rusty Returners launch. He’s been a keen supporter of us since day one and Viv is the perfect ambassador for getting older men back into football as he’s still playing a little himself. “You’re never too old to take up football and this has been shown by Veteran’s Leagues all across Nottinghamshire taking on new older players every week. “We want to keep this momentum going and get everyone playing the game whatever their age or ability. ”
Derek Hattersley, 69, from Sherwood was one of the players in attendance and said the night was a huge success. He said: “What I love most about playing football like this is the socialising and the camaraderie. This understanding of buy essay online differing perspectives was common practice in our family. “Playing the game gives you so much energy at my age and really sets you up for the week. “It’s fantastic that Nottingham City of Football are doing this and it’s really refreshing to be part of the movement. ”
Dozens of people were in attendance and as well as live music and free refreshments, there were a few small sessions ran by a Nottingham City of Football coach followed by 5-a-side matches, which Viv also got involved in. Key challenges to be met for Nottingham City of Football include raising the levels of participation in football in Nottingham, promoting the cultural, social, health and educational benefits of football, supporting diversity among those playing football, and creating new initiatives, which can be replicated across other regions in the country. Find your football at
To find out more about Nottingham City Council’s FREEsport programme go to
Ends
For further information, please contact the Nottingham City of Football Press Office:
Aimee Preston
Macesport
Account Manager.