Solihull Moors Walking Football Reaches Out to the Community in Sparkbrook

On the 5th May 2026, representatives from Solihull Moors Walking Football Club continued their commitment to community engagement by visiting the Shree Birmingham Pragati Mandal (Shree Krishna Temple) in Sparkbrook alongside Solihull Moors Foundation representative “H” Hiten Pankhania.

Representing the walking football club were Chairman John McGinnell and club committee member John O’Dwyer, who spent time discussing the many features and benefits of walking football with members of the local community.

The Shree Birmingham Pragati Mandal is widely recognised as a vibrant community hub where culture, tradition and togetherness play a central role. The visit provided a fantastic opportunity for Solihull Moors Walking Football Club and Solihull Moors Foundation to connect with local residents and showcase how walking football can positively impact people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Walking football has grown significantly across the UK in recent years, particularly among people looking to improve their health, fitness and social wellbeing in a safe and enjoyable environment. The sport is specifically designed to be lower impact than the traditional game, making it accessible to a wide range of age groups and fitness levels.

During the visit, discussions focused on the many benefits that walking football can bring to local communities. These included:

• Improving physical fitness and mobility
• Supporting mental health and wellbeing
• Reducing loneliness and social isolation
• Building friendships and community connections
• Providing an inclusive environment for people to stay active

John McGinnell spoke passionately about the positive effect walking football has had on many players involved with Solihull Moors. From helping individuals regain confidence after illness or injury, to simply giving people a reason to get active and socialise each week, the impact of the sport continues to grow both on and off the pitch.

John O’Dwyer also shared experiences from within the club, highlighting the strong team spirit and welcoming atmosphere that has helped Solihull Moors Walking Football Club become one of the most respected clubs in the region.

A special thank you was given to “H” Hiten Pankhania from Solihull Moors Foundation for helping organise and support the visit. The Foundation continues to play a huge role in strengthening ties between the football club and the wider community through a variety of outreach projects and initiatives.

The visit to Sparkbrook reflects the ongoing ambition of Solihull Moors Walking Football Club to grow the game and make walking football accessible to as many people as possible across Birmingham, Solihull and the surrounding areas.

Sometimes walking football is about far more than just kicking a ball — it is about bringing communities together, improving lives and creating opportunities for people to feel connected, active and included.