Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
Walking Football Competition
6-20 May 2024 in Santa Ponsa
2024 Mallorca Walking Football Tournament
It was good to hear from a FB friend over Christmas and to learn that there is a huge walking football tournament being organised in Mallorca, Spain. Afraid my playing days are over but I am looking forward to attending as a spectator.
“We hereby invite your club/ team to participate in the 2024 Mallorca Walking Football Tournament.
The Mallorca tournament is being organised by the experienced M. F. E organization with the full support of the Calvia Council & the Mallorca Tourist Board. It is a great honour to invite your walking football team to participate in the 2024 Mallorca walking football tournament.
– The tournament will take place from Thursday 16th of May up to and including Monday the 20th of May 2024 in the popular and friendly resort of Santa Ponsa, Mallorca.
– The Mallorca walking football tournament will be part of the 2024 Mallorca football tournaments.
Why should you participate in the Mallorca walking football tournament?
• For the tournament there is a variety of accommodation to suit every budget.
• The rates of the accommodation (Hotels and apartments, self-catering) are inclusive the airport transfer.
• There is a special selection of 3*** & 4**** hotels all with half board.(Except for the hotel Playas del Rey. (Breakfast only)
• There is a special selection of (3 keys rating) apartments (self-catering)
• The tournament will take place on outdoor pitches at the Santa Ponsa Sports complex located in the centre of Santa Ponsa and near the beach.
• The pitches are artificial grass.
• The hotels and apartments are all situated very near to the sports complex and beaches of Santa Ponsa
• Party’s during the tournament.
• Nice bars and restaurants on a walking distance.
• Dutch organisation with 40 years of tournament experience.
• International referees.
• Medical staff present during the whole tournament (Doctor, Physiotherapist, medical personnel).
• Fantastic opening- en closing ceremony.
For more information click on the following buttons:
Official Registration Document
We are looking forward to meet you and your team in Santa Ponca for the Mallorca walking football tournament.
Harry Engels, The Organization”
Tuktuk Countdown
Many will know that I am off on another little tour of the UK in my digital tuktuk for 90 days from January 6th.
Here’s a little update of all the things that have been happening in the background. The JustGiving page is now live and my point of departure is confirmed. It will be at 5pm on Saturday 6th January 2024 from Bedfont Sports on Hatton Rd, TW14 9JR. It’s by Hatton Cross station on the Piccadilly Line. i will be leaving after the Combined Counties game between FC Deportivo Galicia and Langley. All welcome at the game. Want a free ticket? Just txt or Wapp me on 0044 7950 656654
The plan is to raise funds for FC Deportivo Galicia and Prostate Cancer people can sponsor per mile, per club, per stadium etc. Anything from literally £1 will be gratefully received.
The first pledges have started to come in. Eduardo Cagigao immediately bagged Chelsea and his friend Frank Herrera went for their women’s side. AFC Bournemouth was quick to follow. Thanks, Calum McClean. Remember you can get involved from just £1 so hopefully we will be able to raise a tidy sum.
For anybody in business, £5 is a trifling amount to get quality links to their websites. If a business pledges £50, I will also add it to The Worlds Most Expensive Link (check it out!)
I have updated the main website and poster, so hopefully all the information is now in the one place.
Full details here
Norwich Tournament
A friend on Facebook, Chris Good, sent me this information today and said they have almost filled the event but they are still looking for just a few more teams. They are particularly keen to hear from international sides.
I said I was happy to help share the details.
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Saturday Tournament Format & Schedule
Format – Everyone Plays A Final:
- Two groups of 8 teams = 7 group games per team
- Group games – 8 minutes each
- Everyone plays a final – Group A 1st place plays Group B 1st place, down to Group
A 8th place plays Group B 8th place - Finals – 14 minutes
- Total game time per team = 70 minutes
- Minimal wait time between games (some will play consecutively)
Schedule – U8s, U9s & U10s: - 0820 to 0855 – Arrival (please do NOT arrive before 0820)
- 0855 – Registration closes. Managers briefing starts
- 0910 to 1201 – Group games
- 1214 to 1250 – Finals
- 1303 to 1320 – Tournament photo and awards presentation
- 1345 – All teams not staying over on site to have departed please
Schedule – U11s, U12s & U13s: - 1350 to 1430 – Arrival (please do NOT arrive before 1350)
- 1430 – Registration closes. Managers briefing starts
- 1445 to 1736 – Group games
- 1749 to 1825 – Finals
- 1838 to 1855 – Tournament photo and awards presentation
Awards:
- Winners x 6 – trophy for the winner of each final. Gold winners medals for all
players from the 6 winning teams. Silver runners up medals for the second
placed team in the 1st v 1st final only. U8 and U9 age groups – participation gifts
for all remaining players. - Best Defence – fewest goals conceded
- Best Attack – most goals scored
- Fair Play Award – best sporting gesture (decided by referees)
Sunday Tournament Format & Schedule
Format – Group + Knockout:
- Two Tiers:
- Tier 1 – Teams who finished top 4 in each of the two groups from Saturday.
- Tier 2 – Teams who finished bottom 4 in each of the two groups from Saturday
- Each Tier consists of 2 groups of 4 teams = 3 group games per team
- Group games – 15 minutes each
- Everyone qualifies for Quarter-Final. 1st in Group A plays 4th in Group B, etc.
- Semi-Final, 3rd/4th Playoff and Final.
- Knockout games – 18 minutes each
- Total game time per team = 63 to 99 minutes
- Minimal wait time between games (some will play consecutively)
Schedule – U8s, U9s & U10s: - 0815 to 0855 – Arrival (please do NOT arrive before 0820)
- 0855 – Registration closes. Managers briefing starts
- 0910 to 1100 – Group games
- 1116 to 1200 – Quarter Finals
- 1212 to 1230 – Semi Finals
- 1242 to 1300 – Final (and 3rd / 4th Playoff)
- 1312 to 1320 – Awards presentation and winners photo
- 1345 – All teams not staying on site to have departed please
Schedule – U11s, U12s & U13s: - 1350 to 1430 – Arrival (please do NOT arrive before 1350)
- 1430 – Registration closes. Managers briefing starts
- 1445 to 1635 – Group games
- 1651 to 1735 – Quarter Finals
- 1747 to 1805 – Semi Finals
- 1817 to 1835 – Finals (and 3rd / 4th Playoff)
- 1847 to 1855 – Awards presentation and winners photo
Awards:
- Gold (1st place), Silver (2nd place) & Bronze (3rd place) – trophies for each of the
top 3 teams from each of the two Tiers, plus medals for all players from each of
the top 3 teams - Fair Play Award – best sporting gesture (decided by referees)
Venue & Site Map
Address – Easton College, Bawburgh Rd, Easton, Norwich NR9 5DU
College Website
There is a full 12 page information pack available from Chris Good (tournament organiser) on +44 7736 285161 or chrisgood45{at}hotmail[dot]com
A Comprehensive Guide to Maintaining Both Physical and Mental Well-being
In the run up to Christmas, a lot of people struggle for a huge variety of reasons. You may have seen me share “It’s OK not to be OK” memes and quotes but sometimes it needs to go deeper. I have a couple of friends who are going through too much at the moment. Obviously, I would never name them but hope they will read this that I was sent this weekend. If life is tough, grab a coffee and have a read of this aid.
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to overlook the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between physical and mental well-being. The connection between the body and mind is undeniable, and neglecting one can have adverse effects on the other. This comprehensive guide explores various tips and strategies to help you prioritise and enhance both your physical and mental health.
1) Regular Exercise:
Physical activity is not only crucial for maintaining a healthy weight but also for promoting mental well-being. Regular exercise releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones, which help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as a brisk Walk, Jogging, Martial Arts, Yoga or Cycling.
2) Balanced Nutrition:
Fueling your body with the right nutrients is essential for overall health. Maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Adequate nutrition supports both physical and mental functions, contributing to better energy levels and cognitive performance.
3) Sufficient Sleep:
Quality sleep is vital for physical recovery and mental well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to allow your body and mind to recharge. Establish a consistent sleep routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and avoid stimulants like caffeine close to bedtime.
Make sure, and it’s crucial that screen time is minimised to at least an hour before going to bed. Calming and soothing music will also help to get you relaxed before bedtime.
4) Stress Management:
Chronic stress can take a toll on both your body and mind. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness. These activities can help you stay calm, improve focus, and enhance your overall mental resilience.
5) Stay Hydrated:
Staying hydrated is paramount for overall well-being. Water is essential for bodily functions, aiding digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation. Adequate hydration supports vibrant skin, joint health, and cognitive function. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and impaired concentration.
Aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily, adjusting for factors like physical activity and climate. Sip water consistently throughout the day, and pay attention to thirst cues. Prioritising hydration is a simple yet powerful habit, promoting vitality and ensuring your body functions optimally.
6) Regular Health Check-ups:
Preventive healthcare is key to catching potential issues before they become serious. Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, undergo necessary screenings, and address any health concerns promptly. Taking a proactive approach to your physical health can alleviate stress and contribute to overall well-being.
7) Social Connections:
Social connections are fundamental to mental well-being. Cultivating meaningful relationships with friends, family, and community fosters a sense of belonging and support. Positive social interactions reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, enhancing emotional resilience. Regular communication with loved ones provides a vital outlet for sharing experiences and seeking advice.
Loneliness, on the other hand, can contribute to a decline in mental health. Prioritise social connections by spending quality time with others, engaging in shared activities, and fostering open communication. Strong social bonds not only bring joy and fulfilment but also serve as a crucial foundation for mental and emotional stability.
8) Mindful Technology Use:
While technology has numerous benefits, excessive use can contribute to stress and mental fatigue. Establish boundaries for screen time, especially before bedtime, to ensure quality sleep. Take breaks from screens during the day and engage in activities that promote face-to-face interactions.
9) Continuous Learning:
Stimulate your mind by engaging in lifelong learning. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, learning a language, or pursuing further education, intellectual stimulation is essential for cognitive health. Challenge yourself regularly to keep your brain active and resilient.
10) Time Management:
Effective time management is the cornerstone of productivity and well-being. By prioritising tasks and setting realistic goals, you create a structured framework for daily activities. This approach helps prevent overwhelm, reduces stress, and enhances overall efficiency. Allocating time for work, leisure, and self-care ensures a balanced lifestyle, fostering a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Regular breaks during tasks maintain focus and prevent burnout. Embracing time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique or the Eisenhower Matrix, further refines your organisational skills. Cultivate a proactive mindset, adapt to changing priorities, and recognize the value of time as a precious resource for personal and professional growth.
11) Gratitude Practice:
Cultivate a sense of gratitude by reflecting on the positive aspects of your life. Regularly express appreciation for the people, experiences, and opportunities that bring joy and fulfilment. A gratitude practice can enhance your mood and shift your focus towards positivity.
12) Limit Substance Use:
Limiting substance use is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health. Excessive alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drug consumption can lead to serious health issues, addiction, and impaired cognitive function. Moderation is key to preventing long-term consequences. Substance abuse often exacerbates mental health challenges, contributing to anxiety and depression.
Recognizing the impact of substances on overall well-being is the first step towards making informed choices. Seeking support from friends, family, or professional resources can aid in managing and reducing substance use. Prioritise a balanced and healthy lifestyle, fostering resilience and ensuring that your physical and mental faculties remain in optimal condition.
13) Seek Professional Help:
If you’re experiencing persistent physical or mental health challenges, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Whether it’s a healthcare provider, therapist, or counsellor, reaching out to a qualified professional can provide valuable support and guidance.
In conclusion, prioritising both physical and mental health is a holistic approach that contributes to a fulfilling and balanced life. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can create a foundation for overall well-being, ensuring that your body and mind thrive together. Remember that everyone’s journey is unique, so find what works best for you and make these practices a sustainable part of your lifestyle.
…and perhaps most important remember, “It is OK not to be OK.”
Marske United
One of England’s most famous groundhoppers is George AKA The Oldham Groundhopper. He leads a charmed life of running ultra marathons, groundhopping and keeping Wetherspoons in profits. You can follow him on Facebook where he regales us all with tales of endurance runs, football travel and All Day Breakfasts. I always enjoy his posts because not only is he not a glory-hunter (he passionately supports Oldham Athletic) but also because he does not take himself too seriously ….. others please note!
He recently posted a photo of a Mushy Peas Muffin at Marske United to his 20.000+ followers and in true social media fashion it went viral. Anyway, things are sadly not well at the Yorkshire club and they have asked George to help them.
Yesterday he wrote,
“ LETS HELP SAVE A FOOTBALL CLUB
You may remember that in April I posted a photograph of my Batchelors mushy peas on a “muffin” at Marske United and it went VIRAL!!!
Unfortunately in recent days the news has emerged that Marske are set to no longer survive as a football club. The previous chairman has resigned, the club had hoped to move to a Limited Company and to open a share scheme for survival to the end of this season and beyond. It has now been established that this would take 6-8 weeks so unfortunately is not sustainable as the club would not be able to play during that time.
The club have set up a fundraiser but have asked me to share the news and help save the club.
With an idea of a virtual mushy peas for £3 being a way to raise funds for the club.”
George’s tasty Mushy Peas Muffin. If you can help the club please click here Don’t forget to follow The Oldham Groundhopper and share with friends.
Later on that night I heard about the problems at North Shields Football Club further up the coast north of Newcastle. I read this in the Chronicle
“Northern League club North Shields have confirmed they are fighting for their future as they deal with an ‘impossible financial situation’.
The announcement is the latest blow in a challenging period for the club after they were relegated from the Northern Premier League last season after failing to bring their Daren Persson Stadium home up to meet the required criteria to compete in step four of the non-league pyramid.
That came just 12 months after they were crowned as Northern League champions for only the second time in their history after enjoying remarkable success under former management team Marc Nash and Anthony Woodhouse. Former Ryton and Crawcrook Albion manager Daniel Iredale replaced the duo following their departure in the summer and oversaw a major turnover in players as he prepared a new look squad for the club’s return to the Northern League.
However, Iredale and his playing squad have now left the club after the Robins revealed the recent spate of postponed home fixtures over the last two months had ‘financially crippled the club’ and left them with ‘no incoming finance’. The North Shields board are now looking to take steps to rebuild the North Tyneside club but warned a ‘very difficult period’ lies ahead as they look to recover from a devastating blow”
I can’t claim that I have ever been to Marske United’s ground but I did visit North Shields for a pre-season friendly against Glossop North End. Neither Glossop nor North Shields can claim tropical micro climates so it was a surprise to see all the Glossop fans in tutus! ~
Good Luck to Marske United and North Shields in their battle for survival and thanks again to George for his famous Digital Mushy Peas initiative!
KDDesigns6
I was at the excellent Stanchion Books “London Football Book Market” this weekend and met many old friends and a couple of very interesting new exhibitors.
The boys at KDDesigns6 call themselves “Football Illustrated” and that seems a good precis of what the do! I was impressed with both the quality and range of what they do. I have added a few below.
They join the worthy assembly of Football Cartoons , Gillingham Legends, Papilios Creative and Football Art Online There is a special mention for my friend, the mercurial Simon Ellinas who “captured” me 15 years ago (below) who have all mastered the visual side of Football. Let’s support them!
Me! By Simon Ellinas
Welsh Football
It was a pleasure talking to Dave Collins about football this week, ironically about Isle of Man football but the conversation soon moved on to his beloved Welsh Football. He is very excited to announce that the 250th edition of the Welsh Football Magazine will be out shortly and, of course, I told him I would be delighted to give it a shout out!
Keep up the great work, Dave
THE FOOTBALL GAZETTEER OF WALES 2023-24
Welsh Football magazine has published an updated 2023-24 edition of their FOOTBALL GAZETTEER OF WALES (Cyfeirlyfr Meysydd Pêl-droed Cymru).
Last year’s experimental edition of this directory-style publication proved very popular with groundhoppers and other followers of Welsh football, as it provided the first comprehensive listing of all football grounds used at every level of the adult men’s and women’s game.
The 2023-24 edition once again lists every club and the ground(s) they use, organised by league.
Directions are included, with postcodes, nearest railway stations and public transport advice.
The Gazetteer retails for £6.00 (£8.50 including postage for mail order) and is published under ISBN 978-1-7396083-1-6 and is available direct from the publisher or through the Books Council of Wales and many independent bookshops around the country.
WELSH FOOTBALL REACHES 250 ISSUES
Welsh Football magazine will reach another milestone with its 250th issue in December 2023.
Launched in 1992, the magazine aimed to fill a gap in the market by covering the domestic and international football scene in Wales. The nation was asserting its independence from English football and within months we’d see the formation of the first real national league – the League of Wales (now Cymru Premier).
Run by unpaid enthusiasts as a non-profit publication, the magazine has now been published continuously for 32 years and has developed from humble beginnings to a professional quality product, appearing eight times each season.
The first edition of the season, every August, is the annual GUIDE TO WELSH FOOTBALL, the only comprehensive annual preview of the domestic football system in Wales that covers every region of the country and every level of the adult men’s and women’s game. And every June the season’s run is completed with a comprehensive END OF SEASON REVIEW covering all the season’s honours and outcomes. In between these, the six other issues cover news, articles and comment as the season unfolds, with regular club and football history features.
For further information please contact:
David Collins | Editor | welshfootball{at}gmail.com | 07801 299819
About Welsh Football magazine:
Welsh Football is the national football magazine of Wales, published continuously since 1992 by fans, for fans, on a not-for-profit basis. Its mission is to celebrate and promote football in Wales.
Based in Cardiff, the magazine is independently published and is proud to be “an independent magazine for an independent football nation”.
Website: www.welsh-football.net Facebook: Welsh Football magazine – WFM
X (was Twitter): @CollinsWFM
FC Isle of Man
I was following a post on FB yesterday about the teams playing on the English pyramid but who are from the islands. Guernsey and Jersey are two teams punching above their weight and playing in the Isthmian and Combined County leagues but the thread moved to FC Isle of Man who play in the North West Counties League alongside Bury, Glossop North End, Cheadle Town, AFC Liverpool and others. So, every away game is on the mainland!
A couple of their supporters joined the thread and kindly gave great advice so a trip to the Isle of Man is now in the diary for the Spring. I would like to thank and Ray for the welcome and information and hope others can make use of it and may be enticed!
Pauline Bruce says, “Ravens (FC Isle of Man) supporters love to welcome visiting fans and to travel over the Irish Sea to away games. As visiting fans and ourselves have to book ferries, flights and accommodation well in advance to take advantage of cheaper deals, it’s very inconvenient for the league to arbitrarily move our fixtures to accommodate cup ties. (I will keep my thoughts on the Combined Counties to myself! Editor)
I hope Bury get through their next cup match. Good luck to them but the following round is scheduled to be when they are due to play us at the Bowl. I believe over a thousand plan to come over and many have already booked their travel and hotels.
I appreciate we are very lucky to have been accepted into the NWCFL and it’s a unique situation in football for visiting fans to have to travel so far but it’s like a breath of fresh air to welcome them, have a few pints at the Pinewood and engage in friendly banter.
I know, from speaking to away fans that they really enjoy their mini break on our lovely island (and the football too). It’s a marvellous league to be in. I just hope that the league take note of our special position when rearranging matches.”
Ray McMullen added, “There is a good regular bus service from the airport to Douglas, actually goes past the entrance to the Bowl.
Or, depending upon flight time, you’d probably want to go into town/check in to your accommodation first. Then get a bus/taxi/walk to the Pinewood for a pre match pint or two and some grub before heading to the Bowl for the 6pm kick off.”
By now I am hooked. I ask about my other great interest – transport and, glory be, Pauline continues, “Have we got railways? Yes we have! A Victorian Steam Railway that covers the south of the island; an electric railway that covers the north of the island and goes to the top of the mountain and a horse tram that trots along the prom in Douglas. Look them up on Visit Isle of Man. They don’t run in the winter but we have a couple of fixtures in April against teams from Liverpool which will be interesting. If you are interested in transport, we also have a transport museum and a motorbike museum.
There will be extra matches at the end of the season including play-offs (maybe) as well. To get the best island experience you are better waiting until the warmer weather when everything will be open. Let me know when you are coming and we’ll get out the welcome wagon.”
As always, the Shirt fascinates me and it’s terrific, isn’t it? Their Twitter says, “We are pleased to say that the Welcome Centre located in the Sea Terminal now stock a range of FC Isle of Man Merchandise. They are open from 8am until 6pm, Monday to Saturday. Head on down to the Sea Terminal to get your Ravens’ merchandise.”
The website is here (look at the tld!) and this is the Official Twitter account. They are members of @NWCFL Premier Division and sponsored by @ManxTelecom
#UnleashTheRavens
Prostate FC Update
It is always good to hear from my friends at Prostate FC – here are their early season updates
It’s been a busy first few months of the football season, so here’s a round up of what’s been going on in the world of Prostate FC
Football fans, managers and staff join forces to raise thousands
Clubs from across the UK joined forces in October for the annual Prostate United challenge, with Doncaster Rovers, Newcastle United and Derby County just a few of the clubs that got involved.
Together, clubs raised well over £235,000 to fund ground-breaking prostate cancer research and vital support for men and their families, but which club finished top of the fundraising table?
Ex-Man City and Brighton boss shares his own prostate cancer story
It’s why football clubs, staff and fans are raising money to fight prostate cancer. To keep football fans with their families for longer. Men like Brian Horton.
Much-travelled football manager, Brian Horton, hailed the ‘lifesaving’ League Managers Association (LMA) and former teammates for convincing him to go public with his own prostate cancer diagnosis.
…and Super Stelling steps up once again!
Back in September, Jeff Stelling marched from Wembley to Wycombe in honour of the late, great Bill Turnbull.
The event, which was sponsored by GenesisCare, raised an incredible £396,394. Some might say “Unbelievable, Jeff!”, but we’re better than that.
SOZ DESIGNS
I was delighted to meet Stuart Smith on a Facebook football group this week. Regular visitors to TheShirt2010.co.uk will know that I have an active interest in football art.
Stuart makes 3D Acrylic wall mounted crests and I think these are probably the most professional I ahve seen.
He tells me, ” I make mainly 300mm/600mm size ,so would like to stick to them sizes, for the time being.
There could be classed as hand-made as 90 percent of the work is done by hand.
I only work with pure Acrylic because the colours can’t be matched by any other products.
Dual purpose can be used outdoors and indoors.
Prices are as follows:
300 or 600mm £35.00+postage
If you require any further information please get in touch. I have set up a Facebook page ”
Stuart now also offer 4″ fridge magnets at just £6 + postage. Here are a few examples.
