Football Replay has been quick to have an impact in the Trafford Park area of Manchester as the locals look to prove that you don’t need to be young and super-fit to enjoy a kick-around.

The idea behind Football Replay is that it offers those over the age of 35 the chance to enjoy fun five-a-side football and improve their fitness levels by playing against men of similar standards of fitness and ability.

And Stuart Mulholland, manger of the Trafford Powerleague Centre, says the new scheme has been really well received.

He explained: “We originally intended to run it at 5.30pm every Sunday but decided to switch to Friday evening and that has proved to be a very good move.

“We already had a few teams playing regularly in a veterans competition but have enrolled them into Football Replay, signed up some other teams and organised those who came along as individuals into teams as well.

“We’re now up to 10 regular teams and I’m optimistic that numbers will continue to increase because Football Replay seems to be really catching on.”

As Stuart pointed out, establishing the new scheme didn’t just happen. The Trafford Park staff have worked hard to encourage people to get involved, and they’ve had considerable support from organisations like Manchester FA and Trafford Football Development.

“The age range of those involved goes from 35 up to around 55 and they are a real cross-section of people,” he added. “But they seem to be thoroughly enjoying their weekly sessions and we can see already that the social aspect is starting to show through.

“New friendships are being made and in a way, enjoying a drink together afterwards is just as important as the football.”

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