RWD PROMOTION
PLAY ON... Mars and The FA have joined forces to revolutionise the kick-about by introducing an innovative initiative called ‘Just Play’. We hear all about it from nutmegging football fanatic and all-round long-haired legend, Robbie Savage... words by Danny Walker
The aim of getting 150,000 new participants playing for at least 30 minutes a week by September 2013 is a tall order. As soon as our astros touched the turf of a dedicated FA Mars Just Play centre, we instantly realised that task is 100% possible. Former Wales International, Robbie Savage, is of the same opinion... How is it going today Robbie, sorry about nutmegging you and hurting your foot... (Laughs) You nearly broke me foot. So what are your views on the whole Just Play campaign? I think we both just witnessed it’s a fantastic thing. It allows people to go online, click Just Play find your nearest centre to you, turn up and you’ve got guaranteed coaching session put on for you. You’ve got balls, you’ve got bibs. 78 / RWDMAG.COM
It’s good because as a kid I used to go out and play in the park with my mates, maybe 10/ 11 in the morning until it was dark at night. Now, unless you know where to go you can’t even think about it. The easiest thing to do now as a 16 year-old is to go on the Xbox or whatever, but why not just go and play football? It’s important that people keep fit. In the advertising campaign, you mention that even guys who are under the thumb can get involved. When was the last time you were under the thumb? [Quickly] Never! I’ve always been the boss in my house [laughs]. And lastly, who is gonna win the league? United and then City. Just watching them play, [United] look incredible. To get involved in a kick-about near you and to find your nearest Just Play centre, search for Just Play online: justplay.thefa.com
IT’S SIMPLE, JUST PLAY
How we Just Play’ed against Robbie... A session lasts at least 30 minutes and Mars and The FA are planning to deliver 3.9m hours of extra footy by 2013. When we played against Mr Savage, we could tell he still had the same fire and hunger about him (although we did put it through his legs once or twice). Just Play is designed to inspire adults to get up off the sofa and play regular, accessible football whether that’s a simple kickabout or a five-a-side or 11-aside game.The FA and Mars are aiming to create over 100 FA Mars Just Play centres across the country! We’ve played and it works.