1st Regional Walking Football Tournament in Ribeira Brava

1st Regional Walking Football Tournament in Ribeira Brava

Ribeira Brava Gears Up for Inaugural walking Football Tournament

The Municipal Stadium of Ribeira Brava is set to buzz with excitement this saturday, Febuary 26th, as it hosts the first-ever regional Walking Football Tournament. Organized by the Ribeira Brava Senior University (USRB), the event will see 17 teams take to the field, with 15 hailing from Madeira and two representing the Azores.

This tournament marks a significant milestone for the USRB, which was established in 2018. mayor Ricardo Nascimento emphasized the university’s commitment to promoting a holistic approach to well-being for seniors, encompassing education, social interaction, and physical activity. He highlighted walking football as a fantastic addition to their program, providing a fun and accessible way for older adults to stay active.

“This is the fourth national tournament of its kind, but for us, it’s a groundbreaking initiative,” stated Mayor Nascimento. “Our goal is to engage our senior citizens in exercise and recreation, offering them a cost-free opportunity to enjoy the benefits of sport.” He expressed gratitude to the Regional Government, notably the Regional Secretariat for Education, for providing teachers to support the Senior university.

Looking ahead, Mayor Nascimento expressed his hope that the tournament will become an annual event and extended an invitation to other Senior Universities in Madeira to participate in a regional competition. He emphasized the municipality’s dedication to supporting initiatives that cater to the needs and well-being of its senior population.

David Gomes, Regional Director for Sport, lauded the tournament’s contribution to promoting physical activity and combating sedentary lifestyles among older adults. He noted that the event aligns perfectly with the government’s strategies to encourage a more active senior population, ultimately leading to improved health and overall well-being.

Walking Football, a modified version of traditional football played at a walking pace, is specifically designed for individuals aged 50 and above. It’s a fantastic way for seniors to stay active, socialize, and enjoy the thrill of the game without putting undue stress on their joints.

Tournament Schedule:

Morning:

9:00 am: Team Arrivals
9:15 am: Opening Ceremony
9:30 am: tournament Matches Commence
12:15 pm: Exhibition Match Featuring Honored Team and Finals
12:30 pm: Medal Ceremony
1:00 pm: Lunch at the Municipal Garden
2:00 pm: Certificate Distribution

afternoon:

2:30 pm: Cultural Excursion to the Ethnographic Museum of madeira
3:30 pm: Cultural Excursion to the Silver Museum
4:30 pm: Reception at the City Hall

Walking Football: A game Changer for Senior Wellness?

Walking Football, a modified version of the beautiful game designed for players aged 50 and above, is breaking new ground in Madeira, with the Municipal Stadium of Ribeira Brava hosting the region’s inaugural tournament this Saturday, February 26th.

To delve deeper into this exciting progress and discuss it’s impact on senior well-being,I had the pleasure of interviewing former professional footballer and passionate advocate for active aging, Paulo Jorge.

Q: Paulo, the ribeira Brava Senior university (USRB) is organizing this historic tournament. How significant do you see this event in promoting physical activity among older adults?

Paulo Jorge:

It’s fantastic! This tournament is a beacon of hope,highlighting the crucial role sport can play in enhancing the lives of seniors. Walking Football is a perfect example – it allows older individuals to enjoy the thrill of competition and the social benefits of team sport without putting undue stress on their joints.

Q: Mayor Nascimento emphasized making this tournament accessible to all seniors, offering a cost-free experience. Do you think this approach is vital to encourage wider participation?

Paulo Jorge: Absolutely! Accessibility is key. Financial barriers shouldn’t stand in the way of seniors enjoying the positive effects of physical activity. Making this tournament free removes a significant hurdle and encourages a more inclusive environment.

Q: Walking Football is gaining momentum globally.What are your thoughts on its potential to become a mainstream sport for older adults?

paulo jorge:

I truly believe Walking Football has the potential to revolutionize how we approach senior fitness. It’s adaptable, enjoyable, and incredibly beneficial for both physical and mental well-being. It fosters camaraderie, combats social isolation, and promotes a sense of purpose.

Q: Mayor Nascimento hopes for this tournament to become an annual fixture and even expand to a regional competition. How important is it to create long-term sustainable initiatives for senior wellness?

Paulo jorge:

Creating sustainable programs is vital. One-off events, while impactful, can’t create lasting change. Establishing regular events like this tournament, along with ongoing support for senior sports initiatives, sends a powerful message that we value the health and well-being of our older population.

Q: Walking Football clearly aligns with government strategies to promote an active senior population. What more can be done to encourage widespread adoption and accessibility?

Paulo Jorge:

Governments play a crucial role. Increased funding for community-based programs, designated Walking Football facilities, and public awareness campaigns are essential.

We need to break the stereotypes surrounding aging and highlight the incredible benefits of staying active. Walking Football can be a powerful tool for achieving this.

We want to hear your thoughts! Do you believe Walking Football could be the answer to promoting healthier and more active lifestyles for seniors? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the conversation!

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