Brent Hosts First-Ever International Walking Football Invitational: A Celebration of Community, Culture and the Power of the Game.
Despite the rain, spirits soared in NW10 on Sunday 20th July as the first International Walking Football Invitational Competition took place at Bridgestone Arena, hosted by Walking Football Caribbean in association with the Jason Roberts Foundation (JRF). Supported by the Premier League and the Professional Footballer’s Association (PFA) through the Players’ Project Pilot, the day brought together over 120 attendees, including teams, volunteers, families, and local community leaders, for a celebration of football’s power to connect generations and cultures.
A Day of Firsts
Teams travelled from across the UK and beyond, with one of the standout moments being the arrival of Somalia’s first-ever international walking football team, a historic milestone warmly acknowledged by all in attendance. From the outset, the energy was high. Teams gathered in the Bridgestone Arena hall to kick off the day with a welcome speech from Jason Roberts, founder of the JRF and former Premier League striker. His message was clear: “This is about community, purpose, and using the game we love to unite and uplift.”
Jason’s presence was a highlight for many. As one participant put it, “It’s inspiring that a player of his stature comes down and supports us it means the world.” That sentiment set the tone for a day grounded in inclusivity, dignity, and joy.
The Players’ Project in Action
The Players’ Project Pilot, backed by the Premier League and PFA, was at the heart of the event. Designed to empower current and former players to use their platforms to give back, the initiative was brought to life through Jason’s active involvement not just as a figurehead, but as a present and engaged host, walking the pitch, talking to teams, and handing out medals and caps.
Jason reflected at the end of the day:
“I’ve learned so much from today. Watching the older generation enjoy the game, seeing the camaraderie, the connection it really is special. This is what the Players’ Project is all about: using the blessings football gave me to create social change and support communities.”
Football, Friendship, and Purpose
While the competition was fierce, with England teams taking home the trophies in both the Over 50s and Over 60s categories, the true victory was in the connections formed. For many, walking football is not just a sport, it’s a lifeline, a way to maintain health, rediscover identity, and find fellowship in later life.
Players shared how walking football has helped them combat isolation, recover from illness, and regain a sense of purpose.
Legacy and Impact
As part of the tradition of Walking Football Caribbean, the day concluded with the annual presentation of player caps, this year handed out by Jason himself.
Otis Roberts, CEO of the Jason Roberts Foundation, summed it up perfectly:
“Thanks to the Premier League, the PFA, and the Players’ Project, we’re able to create moments like this. To bring players from far and wide, from all walks of life, and unite them through football it’s brilliant and I can’t thank them enough.”
Watch a rousing rendition by the competing teams of “Sweet Caroline” at the end of the video overview here https://vimeo.com/1103070591
