Modbury Vixens
A Walking Football Story by Laura Bell
From humble beginnings in January 2024 to becoming a growing force in the Devon Walking Football community, Modbury Vixens’ first 15 months have been full of football and fun. What a journey it’s been!
We started out with just a handful of enthusiastic women up for giving Walking Football a go. Fast forward a year, and we’ve grown to 22 players. Some of us had never kicked a ball before, others had played years ago. But that’s the beauty of Walking Football: it’s for everyone.
Setting up a Walking Football club
We set up this club from scratch, we’re not part of any existing club or community organisation – and none of our committee had ever played football before! It’s been quite the learning curve.
One of our early speed bumps came in the form of a very soggy pitch. Our regular playing field was waterlogged for months, so we had to scramble for an all-weather winter training venue.
Sports hall secured, we quickly realised that one hour of training a week just wasn’t enough to fuel our growing passion for Walking Football. Nor to compete with established local teams.
We added a second and then a third hour of training, this time on astro at the local rugby club. For those who wanted even more, there was always the opportunity to join our ‘brother’ club, the South Hams Walking Football Club, for additional hour of training. We’ve become a close-knit bunch, with some of the men helping us out with brilliant coaching.
We needed to spread the word to attract players. We registered with the Walking Football Association, put up posters and set up a Vixens Facebook page so that people could find us.
Another hurdle we faced was the financial side of things. Like any new club, we had some challenges. Could we grow enough to cover our costs? Thanks to generous grant funding from Devon County Council and Greene King Brewery we were able to fund sessions while we grew player numbers. Thanks to growth in player numbers and a switch from pay-as-you-go to monthly subs, we’re now on more solid financial footing.
And as for kit sponsorship? Enter Greenlight (aka Autism Cornwall), a cause that resonates deeply with many of our players. They provide accommodation and support for adults with learning disabilities, autism and challenging behaviour. We’re very proud to wear their logo.
Friendlies, tournaments and the Devon FA Women’s Walking Football League
Our journey began with friendly matches, where we got to know the wonderful players from other clubs across Devon. You get a few surprised looks at work when people ask you how your weekend was, and you tell them you were playing football against Exeter City or Plymouth Argyle! We also had brilliant support from the Dawlish Swans, while Braunton WFC travelled down from North Devon to play friendlies with us one gloriously sunny Sunday afternoon!
Initially we were just about to put together one team, but next year we’ll be running two teams! With this new addition, we’re able to offer even more opportunities for women to get involved.
Soon we found ourselves in tournaments. We were also a proud founder member of the Devon FA Women’s Walking Football League. We finished bottom but we had an absolute blast! It’s not about where we finish, but the friendships, fun and fitness along the way. Our players say:
“I always liked football but there weren’t opportunities to play when I was growing up. I never imagined I’d play for a team but I do and I’ve made brilliant friends here – I just love it!”
Laura.
“I never thought at my age I would ever be involved in a team game with amazing ladies!!! I have the best group of team mates/ friends. I love that we have so much fun and laughter and we’re getting fitter.”
Michelle
“Being part of the Vixens has been the first thing I have done for myself since being a mum. It’s given me confidence, new friendships and so many laughs. Best thing I’ve done for a long time.”
Oria
“I am so grateful to have found Modbury Vixens, it’s just what I needed. Exercise, football, being part of a team and having a fun with lovely people. It’s like a tonic!”
Lisa
“Being part of the Vixens has helped me deal with a painful bereavement last year. It has given me a new focus and the strength to deal with my emotions, with the support from an amazing group of ladies.”
Kym
The magic of the Modbury Vixens is that it’s so much more than just a football team. It’s a community of women, in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s coming together to support one another. We’ve seen friendships blossom, confidence grow, and there have been a lot of laughs along the way.
Another highlight this year was the recognition of our coach Linda, who was commended as the Walking Football Association Coach of the Year (Womens). This accolade speaks volumes about the passion, dedication, and expertise she brings to the club.
What’s next for the Modbury Vixens?
If you had told us a year ago where we’d be today, we’d have been surprised. We’ve come along way. But the best part? We’re just getting started. Here’s to another year of football, fun, and friendship. We’re excited to run two teams, starting anytime now!
At the heart of everything we do is our ethos of inclusivity and respect. While we certainly want to win, it’s never at the expense of our values. What truly matters to us is the way we conduct ourselves, the way we treat one another, and the friendships we build both on and off the pitch. We know how lucky we are to have found football later in life, and that’s why we’re a club that welcomes anyone who wants to play, regardless of experience or background.
You’re never too old. We support one another and have proved that it’s never too late to try something new, make lasting memories, and be part of something truly special.
