Arsenal legend Paul Davis recently joined Arsenal in the Community’s Parkinson’s Walking Football session.
This programme provides a safe environment for participants to enjoy the game, and also extends a welcoming hand to individuals of all ages and abilities living with Parkinson's. Beyond the game itself, the initiative serves as a platform for social interaction and support, and fosters a sense of community among its members.
“It’s great to see this group enjoying themselves, and it’s amazing to see the work that Arsenal does to help people in the local community,” said Paul.
Following the playing session, participants enjoyed a Q&A session with the former midfielder. He delved into his illustrious career, which across more than 400 appearances for Arsenal included two league titles, two League Cups, an FA Cup and a memorable triumph in the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1994.
Paul reminisced about the historic night in 1989 when Arsenal clinched the league title at Anfield, sharing his experience of being among the jubilant away supporters alongside Niall Quinn and Brian Marwood. He also regaled participants with tales of playing alongside legends like the late David Rocastle and the iconic 1990/91 league-winning squad, which suffered only one defeat that season.
Wrapping up the session, Paul shed light on his fitness regime, despite hanging up his boots almost three decades ago, and discussed his current role at the FA as a Senior Professional Game Coach Developer. In this capacity, he plays a pivotal role in nurturing and enhancing the skills of the next generation of coaches.
The session concluded with Paul sharing insights from his book, Arsenal And After, offering deeper glimpses into his upbringing and early days at Arsenal.
The Parkinson’s sessions include resistance exercises to help improve and maintain muscle mass, cardiovascular exercise to improve and maintain heart and lung function and coordination and mental stimulation, which have all been shown to help slow the progression of Parkinson’s to some extent.
Individuals with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s frequently encounter barriers to exercise due to the challenges posed by their symptoms. Many may feel excluded from mainstream exercise programmes due to physical limitations or concerns about not fitting in.
Sessions such as these provide a crucial outlet for participants to engage in physical activity at their own pace, alongside others facing similar challenges. Beyond the physical benefits, these sessions foster a supportive environment where participants can share experiences, offer mutual encouragement and socialise with peers who understand their journey.
For more information email Rhys Ratcliffe at rratcliffe@arsenal.co.uk
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