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The Rangers Charity Foundation alongside Rangers Football Club, were honoured to attend the “Unity is Strength” event last week at the AXA Training Centre in Liverpool.

Hosted by the Hillsborough Survivors Support Alliance in partnership with the Liverpool FC Foundation, the event brought together Walking Football teams from across the UK for a tournament – including a side made up of our own regular Walking Football programme participants – to celebrate the power of football, honour those affected by past tragedies, and promote a culture of respect in the game.

Our mixed team made the journey from Ibrox early Sunday morning, joining coaches and family members of Ibrox disaster victims for a full day of activities.

The tournament kicked off after an opening briefing and an educational session which focused on raising awareness of football-related tragedies and fostering a spirit of solidarity among clubs and communities. Participants were able to connect and share experiences.

The Rangers team gave a strong account of themselves on the pitch and left the AXA Training Centre as Unity is Strength Walking Football Tournament champions.

Foundation Community Coach, John Joyce said: “Travelling down to Anfield was an incredible experience for the group and I know they had a fantastic time.”

“We all learned a lot from the educational session in the morning and being here representing Rangers Football Club, we know how important it is that we work together to tackle tragedy chanting and other forms of hate that take place in football.”

Walking Football participant, Sarra Smith said: “It’s been huge for me to come here and represent the Club. To just be invited to attend the Unity is Strength tournament has been special.

“Pulling on a Rangers jersey and competing was quite emotional and then winning silverware really capped the whole day off.”

Walking Football is a fast-growing version of the sport which is non-contact and allows participants to play the game they love without the same risk of injury or level of exertion, whilst still boosting fitness.

Foundation community programme participant, Robert Thomson added: “It was the best day of my life. I even wore my medal to work the next day.”

The Foundation’s free Walking Football programme for anyone aged 50 and over is a great way to get more active and enjoy the social aspects that being part of a club can deliver.

The sessions take place at the Ibrox Community Complex, 80 Hinshelwood Drive, Glasgow, G51 2XD on Thursday’s at 11am. Please note that the programme is currently on a summer break and will return in the last week of August.

For more information, visit the website or contact the Foundation via email on: rangerscharity@rangers.co.uk