By Mark Seymour
Fourteen walking footballers from Haverfordwest County — ranging in age from their 50s to their 70s — embarked on a memorable trip to Ireland at the end of last month, blending competitive spirit with camaraderie in a cross-border sporting exchange that showcased the very best of walking football.
The group travelled by ferry to Rosslare and arrived in Wexford early Friday evening, settling in for a two-night stay. On Saturday afternoon, they made the short journey to the coastal village of Duncannon, where they were warmly welcomed by teams comprising players from Duncannon, Wexford, and Waterford.
The footballing action took the form of a round-robin tournament, with Haverfordwest County fielding two sides for a bit of fun and friendly rivalry: The Dragons and The Shamrocks. The Shamrocks proved unstoppable, going undefeated and winning the tournament outright. The Dragons put in a strong showing too—winning one match, losing one, and drawing with their Shamrock counterparts.
After the matches, players and hosts gathered in a local bar in Duncannon for an evening of shared stories, laughter, and a few well-earned pints. The return to Wexford later that night capped off a day that perfectly captured the spirit of walking football—competitive, inclusive, and deeply social.
“This was our first but certainly not last overseas trip. The welcome and friendship in Duncannon was second to none and one I hope we can return. A massive thank you to our hosts. Walking football and friendship were the winners, and it is certainly true that Guinness is better on home soil.” — Paul Williams, Chairman of Haverfordwest County Walking Football
“A huge thank you to the Haverfordwest Walking Football Team for making the long journey and to Wexford FC Walking Football Team and Waterford Walking Football for joining us as well.
“All matches were played in great spirit, with plenty of laughs and good-natured competition — a true celebration of sport and friendship. All Teams arrived as strangers and departed as friends “ — Jim Park, Duncannon Walking Football Club
This Irish adventure follows two successful trips last year to Alcester in Warwickshire and marks the club’s first overseas fixture. With the appetite for travel and connection growing, plans are already being discussed for a European tour in 2026.
Walking football continues to prove its worth — not just as a way to stay active, but as a vehicle for community, mental wellbeing, and international friendship. Meeting like-minded players in Ireland reinforced the shared values that underpin the sport: respect, enjoyment, and the joy of the game at any age.
