MARGAO
The Goa Football Veterans (South) are planning to establish a state association for Walking Football after experiencing the sport for the first time at the 5th National Masters Championship 2026 in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.
The Goa veterans recently participated in a Walking Football Exhibition Match against Coimbatore FC, runners-up in the recently concluded Walking Football Championship held in Coimbatore.
At least eight members of the Goa contingent played Walking Football for the first time and were impressed by the concept. They have now begun planning to set up a state association, preferably under the aegis of the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG).
Walking Football is a non-contact variant of association football introduced in 2011 to help older adults and people with mobility issues remain active while continuing to enjoy the beautiful game.
The sport is played on smaller pitches, typically measuring 20-40 yards in length and 15-30 yards in width. A size-four futsal ball is used indoors, while a standard football is used outdoors.
The sport is gaining wider recognition in India, with the All India Walking Football Federation, affiliated to the Federation of International Walking Football Associations (FIWAA), set to organise the International Walking Football Championship in Puducherry from January 28 to 31, 2027.
