Arsenal in the Community

Smith Rowe visits Walking Football programme

In June, Arsenal in the Community launched a special Walking Football programme, funded by the Premier League and PFA, designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. 

Led by our Health and Wellbeing Coordinator, Rhys Ratcliffe, these sessions run every Wednesday from 12pm to 1.30 pm with the aim of creating a secure and supportive environment where participants can engage in physical activity. The initiative welcomes individuals of all ages and abilities affected by Parkinson’s, offering them a chance to exercise safely while connecting with others.

Our Hale End graduate Emile Smith Rowe recently joined the group when they made the trip to London Colney earlier this month. While there, Emile was able to see what a session entails and how our Arsenal in the Community coaches support those who attend.

A segment featuring Emile, Rhys, participants and organisers of the group was showcased on Sunday morning’s Match Of The Day in which they discussed the positive impact the programme has had on participants’ lives.

Take a brief two-minute moment to watch the clip above and hear what they had to say.