Gemma Darvill’s involvement in walking football began after her father, Les, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 58. Darvill credits the sport with preventing her father from becoming socially isolated and believes it played a critical role in preserving his quality of life. Eight years after her father’s initial diagnosis, Darvill has transitioned into a leadership role as the coach of the first England women’s Parkinson’s walking football team.

The team serves as a support network for women across the country who are managing the degenerative condition. Walking football is a modified version of the sport designed to be lower impact, which practitioners believe can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Darvill is currently preparing to travel to Toronto, where she intends to promote the benefits of walking football and advocate for its use as a therapeutic tool for those living with Parkinson’s. The program highlights the intersection of community sports and health management, providing a platform for women to remain active despite their diagnosis.