It was a pleasure to come together with The Walking Football Association during their Canadian tour, to compete for the Systech Cup in Toronto on 18 September, supporting Parkinson’s awareness through a sport that gave us all plenty to talk about afterwards.

This initiative is close to our hearts at Systech. We were delighted to take part alongside players from England and Toronto, sharing the pitch with people living with Parkinson’s and spending time getting to know them.

We were also joined by former Scotland international Steven Caldwell, who spoke before the tournament and then took to the pitch himself. Thank you, Steven, for being part of the day.

Eight teams competed in Liberty Village, including three from England’s Parkinson’s walking football community, four local teams and our own Systech side. At least 60 people participated, more than half of whom were living with Parkinson’s.

The football was great fun and, as our team discovered, surprisingly tiring at walking pace! We couldn’t have asked for a warmer welcome from our fellow players.

Over food and drinks afterwards, several participants shared their experiences of living with Parkinson’s. Having that time together mattered to us, and hearing what Systech’s support meant to those who had travelled from England made the occasion particularly special.

Our thanks to The Walking Football Association, the players and everyone who helped make the Systech Cup possible.

We’re proud to support this community and grateful to have been so warmly included in it.