The Ray Kennedy Weekend gives us the opportunity to play Parkinson's running and walking football with teams of the highest quality, reflecting our dedication to providing everyone with Parkinson’s access to play at their own level.

We have watched and listened as the development of the Parkinson’s walking football community has gathered momentum.  We have been involved in the establishment of a Parkinson’s England Team which recently won a tournament in Singapore.  We have witnessed first hand the passion which the Ray Kennedy Cup competition generates and how the challenges we all face have been overcome by our love of the game.

The need for both running and walking football for players with Parkinson’s is clear. Any player capable of playing running football should be given the opportunity to play for as long as possible in a safe environment.  Equally important is the beneficial impact this could have on the Young Onset section of the Parkinson’s community where following a diagnosis there is a readymade support network in an otherwise difficult coming to terms period.

Thanks to the organisers of the Ray Kennedy Weekend the ever increasing availability of Parkinson’s walking football will allow players to continue to achieve their goals. Whether it is to play for England or simply join in the game at their preferred level and to maintain physical fitness while enjoying an active social life, walking football is the future and the Ray Kennedy Shield, which will be contested between teams from around the world as it grows, will be the globally recognised tournament in which to play.  We look forward to seeing you there!