The countdown is on for a group of passionate walking footballers from the North East as they prepare to take on the country's best in an upcoming tournament. These players, some of whom have waited decades for a chance to play competitively, will represent their region at the first-ever Walking Football Association (WFA) Women's Super League in Gloucester on 17 May.

For many, this moment is a dream come true—a chance to step onto the pitch in a sport that was historically dominated by men. Now, they're not just competing for regional pride; some are also vying for spots on the national team.

Take Jackie Freeman, 61, from Saltburn. A centre-forward with a lifelong love for the game, she's been kicking a football since she was a little girl. She played regular football from age 17 and was even selected for England training sessions, but financial barriers kept her from pursuing that path. "I couldn't afford to go," she recalls. "It was sickening." After getting married at 24, she set football aside for 35 years, focusing on family and running a shoe repair business. But two years ago, her family encouraged her to lace up her boots again. Now, she plays for Redcar Town Ladies Development team in regular 11-a-side matches and the Stokesley walking football team. "I could hardly walk the next day after my first session back," she laughs, "but the training has me fitter than ever." With the tournament approaching, she says, "I'm really looking forward to it, and I'm confident we'll do well."

Then there's Julie Norris, 56, from Guisborough. A former deputy headteacher who studied sport at university, she now coaches women in their 40s as part of the regional team. She'll also represent England as part of a Parkinson's women's walking football team in September—a testament to the inclusive, life-changing power of the sport. "The skills of the women I coach are incredible," she says, grateful for the opportunity to be part of something bigger than herself.

Walking football is more than just a slower-paced version of the beautiful game—it's a second chance for players like Freeman and Norris to compete, connect, and inspire. As they gear up for the Super League, one thing is clear: age is just a number, and the love for the game never fades.