THE Football Over 70s and 75s World Cups will be held in the UK for the first time this month with Wales having the honour of hosting the international tournament.
At a time of life when men could be forgiven for putting their feet up and taking a more passive approach to sport, over 450 players in their 70s and 80s from across the world will head to Cardiff for the competition between August 20 and 23.
The tournament features 27 teams from Denmark, Germany, USA, Canada, Australia, England and Wales, with the finals being refereed by former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher.
The tournament will be supporting the charities Dementia Wales and the British Heart Foundation as well as grassroots vets football in Wales.
Jon Ross, Wales Over-70s co-manager and managing director of main tournament sponsor WorkwearSupermarket.com, said: “It’s going to be a fantastic event showcasing the best veteran footballers from around the world.
“We’re hoping that home advantage will work in our favour and give Wales a chance of glory.
“Our thanks go to our partners at Cardiff University for the use of their top-class facilities at Llanrumney in Cardiff and their invaluable support in hosting the tournament.”
To be clear, this is not ‘Walking Football’. The Over 70s teams play to full FIFA rules while the Over 75s teams play 7-a-side using half of the pitch.
Wales Over 75s are managed by ex-Newport County, Burnley and Cardiff City manager Jimmy Mullen.
Jimmy’s joint manager, Tim Bowker said: “What a great experience for the lads to be put through their paces by someone who has managed at the top level.
“They’re improving their fitness levels and look better with every training session.”
Veterans football in Wales is becoming increasingly popular, with over 1,500 players competing in leagues at all age levels from Over 40s to Over 65s.
Whilst having a league structure for these groups is one thing, there is another side to the story.
Alun Huish, WVFA Chairman says “On top of playing competitive football, getting out and exercising regularly is proved to decrease the risk of heart disease and strokes in these age groups.
“There are also major benefits to the mental health of many of our players who can feel isolated without the opportunity to get out with the lads on a Sunday”.
The World Cup will take place at the Cardiff University Sports Fields in Llanrumney, Cardiff from August 20 to 23. For more information, visit 2024worldcup.wales.
