From Madeira to Toronto: Winchester’s international connections

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While Winchester Walking Football players were enjoying their tour of Madeira, two familiar faces were flying the flag for the club on England duty in Canada.

Sisters Morag Pearce and Heather Kirkland travelled to Toronto for the Canadian International Walking Soccer Festival, taking the friendship and enthusiasm at the heart of Winchester Walking Football onto yet another international stage.

Morag, who plays for Winchester and captains one of our competitive teams, captained the England Women’s Over-60s. Heather, our inspirational club coach, was the team’s manager and also refereed a number of matches. Between them, they certainly earned their sightseeing time!

The England WFA contingent included Women’s Over-50s and Over-60s, Men’s Over-60s and Over-70s, Kicking Cancer Women, and Parkinson’s Men and Women teams. It was a successful festival for all the teams, with new friendships and connections formed with their Canadian hosts.

The visit also offered a chance to explore. Heather and Morag enjoyed a couple of days sightseeing, including a trip to the Rogers Centre to watch a Toronto Blue Jays baseball match and a visit to Niagara Falls. A change of sporting pace, followed by a rather spectacular water feature!

We are proud to see two people who contribute so much to our club taking on these roles with England. Morag’s leadership and Heather’s coaching make a real difference here in Winchester, and it is lovely to see that same commitment shared more widely.

With club members in Madeira and Toronto, Winchester Walking Football has certainly been broadening its horizons. Our thanks also go to Winchester Mobility, whose continued support helps our club thrive at home as our members build friendships abroad.

Two destinations, different sporting experiences and the same shared enthusiasm for walking football.