The Pennine Parkies were formed in 2019 by five men with Parkinson’s Disease. Though the Covid lockdown stunted their early growth by 2023 they have progressed to be, arguably, the pre eminent Parkinson’s Walking Football Team in the country. In April 2023 they entered two teams in the National Cup at St George’s Park, with one team beaten in the semi final, the other very unfortunately losing a penalty shoot out in the Final. In June the team took part in the Parkinson’s Running Football European tournament in Liverpool, losing a semi final penalty shoot out versus Norway without conceding a single goal in open play in any match. This was their very firdt outing at running football. The following day the same team won the Ray Kennedy Shield, the Parkinson’s Walking Football version of the European Cup – again, without conceding a single goal in open play. In October the team were runners up in the inaugural People’s Ford Scottish Cup. On the field the team has undoubtedly been the most successful PD team in 2023. The team has also entered ‘able bodied’ walking football tournaments – and, to their immense credit, are rarely recognised as a ‘disabled’ team – a fantastic illustrstion of dedication, talent and ability to change attitudes.
In addition three members of the team have represented England, one as captain – a reflection not only of talent but the ability of those players to play a key ambassadorial role internationally in the bid to inspire exercise as a keystone in the fight against the progression of Parkinson’s.
Off the field the team has promoted the benefits of exercise through Walking Football though multiple media appearances and links with NHS physiotherapists. The team has almost tripled in membership through 2023 – no small achievement given the inherent difficulties in getting those with PD to exercise and socialise.
In summary, in addition to their inspirational role within the Parkinson’s community, the Pennine Parkies are the most successful PD team of 2023.
Target Audience
Alll Ages all genders predominantly in the Parkinsons world wide community
Key Dates and Timings
Ongoing hopefully
Specific Opportunity Details
We are a Parkinsons disease walking football club. We enter into national tournaments throughout the year and we are looking at purchasing some team jackets and hoodies.
Features and Benefits
There would be advertising opportunities And the brand logo would be on the back of the jackets and hoodies.
Other Partners
Trafficlear - main shirt sponsor
Grip activ - kit manufacturer
Investment
£1000
Other Info
We also have England internationals in the squad so it could further the exposure of the company on the international stage.