A COMMUNITY football group that aims to get adults back on the pitch is launching an additional weekly session in Tameside after seeing demand grow.
Local Kickabout, which organises friendly games for adults aged between 18 and 40, will kick off its second session in the borough on Monday, June 8.
It comes as more players sign up looking for a way to stay active, meet new people and improve their wellbeing.
Unlike traditional amateur football leagues, the sessions are designed to be accessible to players of all abilities. Organisers have removed some of the more competitive elements often associated with grassroots football, with no sliding tackles, no substitutes and an emphasis on participation rather than results.
The initiative was launched to tackle more than just physical fitness. Its founders say the sessions were created to help combat isolation, encourage social interaction and provide a regular opportunity for people to get away from screens and connect with others.
Chris Jenkins, Co-Founder and CEO of Local Kickabout, said: “From day one, the goal was never just football. We wanted to build something people genuinely looked forward to every week – somewhere anyone could turn up, feel welcome, and be part of a positive community.
“Hearing members call it ‘the best part of their week’ means everything to us. That’s exactly what Local Kickabout was created for.”
The organisation already runs weekly sessions in Tameside and Stockport and says participation has grown rapidly since its launch.
Chris added: “We’ve been blown away by the response across Denton and Stockport so far. The community has grown incredibly quickly, and we’re excited to keep expanding with more sessions planned over the coming months.”
Among those taking part is Alex Sharples, who said the welcoming atmosphere had encouraged him to return to football after years away from the game.
“I hadn’t played football properly in years before joining. What surprised me most was how welcoming everyone was. It’s competitive enough to be fun, but there’s no ego or pressure. Honestly, it’s become one of the highlights of my week.”
With additional sessions planned across Greater Manchester before the end of the summer, organisers hope even more people will discover the benefits of getting back on the pitch.
Anyone interested in joining can register online at https://localkickabout.com/ and attend a free taster session before committing to regular games.