Auld Greys Walking the Walk
Kendal Auld Greys host successful Walking Rugby Fest for the over 55s.
Kendal Auld Greys recently hosted a very successful Walking Rugby Fest for the over 55s thanks to funding from Cumbria County Council and some 60 players proved that you’re never too old to enjoy the game.
There were players from Barrow Silver Raiders, Fylde, Settle, Trafford MV and, from north of the border, The Midlothian Uncoachables.
Exceptional trickery
Teams were allocated at the event to stop overly enthusiastic competitiveness, given some were in their 80s, and non-stop drizzle failed to dampen players’ enthusiasm. The games were played in great spirit and with lots of pie, peas and chips consumed and a few celebratory drinks enjoyed, an award was made for exceptional trickery on the field of play, with another for sportsmanship going to team Parthians.
The Auld Greys have been nominated in the Honda Volunteer of the Year awards and have players in their 70s and 80s enjoying regular sessions, when some 25 to 30 turn up. Like any team, sometimes they have an injury list. However, according to their team manager, Paul Want , theirs differ in that they are more likely to be hip or knee replacements.
Training own referees
“It doesn’t stop players being involved,” says Paul. “One came back after a hip operation a few weeks ago and another is expected back after recuperating. One of our men was so ill last year he was in a medically induced coma for three days. He recovered to play again but then had a heart valve replacement. Being who he is, he will be back at some stage. His wife is also part of the squad.
“Two of our members, Ginny and John, were retiring from playing but still wanted to be involved so we started a referee development programme, and their refereeing has had a very positive impact.”
Recent highlights included a visit from Saracens 1st XV coach Dan Vickers in support of a walk some of the Auld Greys completed between Ulverston and Carlisle in May in support of The Motor Neurone Disease Association, when they raised over £3,200.
Now the club is planning on making their Walking Rugby Fest an annual event, while training and playing throughout the new season.
