Oxford United in the Community Launch Parkinson’s Walking Football Programme

Oxford United in the Community is providing a new Walking Football programme for people affected by Parkinson’s Disease.

Run in collaboration with local grassroots club Quarry Rovers, and supported by Parkinson’s UK, the new team has been set up with the aim of bringing people affected by the disease together.

Regular exercise can slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease, and founder Mark Pritchard, who was diagnosed in 2020, is hoping to grow a community across Oxfordshire.

He said: “It’s about having fun and I think it’s important for us as a Parkinson’s community to come together and share our experiences.

“That was something I struggled with when I was first diagnosed. It’s really about building a social community and extending that support network.”

Oxford United in the Community is providing a pitch at the Oxford United Training Centre for the weekly sessions, as well as a coach to lead each session.

Mark said: “When I spoke to Matt Everett, I got a bit emotional because I was quite impressed with the amount of support that Oxford United in the Community were willing to put towards this initially small venture.

“They’ve very kindly allowed us to use these facilities but also the enthusiasm and belief that they’ve shown in us to get this up and running around the county.”

Oxford United legend and Club Ambassador, Peter Rhoades-Brown made a surprise visit to the first session and spoke to the attendees before the action began.

Attending the session was Jonathan Corp, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s three years ago.

He said: “Today’s session has been amazing. It’s really important with people who have Parkinson’s to do lots of exercise.”

“When I heard about this walking football programme, I jumped at the chance of playing it.”

Sessions take place every Thursday from 2:00-3:00pm at the Oxford United Training Centre. If you are interested in playing or supporting this new programme, please email [email protected].