Since the early 1900s, Jersey and Guernsey (and on one occasion Alderney) have gone toe-to-toe on the football pitch to see who can win the prestigious Muratti Vase.
Now, a squad from Jersey is due to line up against Guernsey in the first ever inter-island walking football clash this Saturday.
The organisers are not promising a fast-paced encounter – running is banned – but they are hoping for a competitive event.
Dan Garton, community programmes officer for Jersey Sport, said Guernsey laid down the challenge earlier this year and the team from Jersey – which includes one 18-year-old player as well as men in their 60s – were keen to accept.
‘The lads are really keen and are calling it their Muratti and joking about getting Muratti hats. We are going to get Jersey Sport football shirts – in red obviously,’ said Mr Garton.
‘This would be the first time a walking football game between Jersey and Guernsey has ever been held.
‘The plan is to maybe have two Jersey teams and play two five or six-a-side games against the eight lads from Guernsey. But at the end of the day, it’s all fun – it’s not meant to be a massive competition.’
Walking football has exploded in popularity across Britain in recent years.
Primarily targeted at over-55s, games involve normal five-a-side football rules, the only difference being that running is banned.
If a player does run, on or off the ball, a free-kick is awarded.
Mr Garton said that when Jersey Sport first started their walking football sessions at Fort Regent in November, the sessions were targeted at over-55s.
But, he stressed, younger players would not be stopped from taking part. Players who have retired from the full game, who have struggled with injuries or have a disability, are all encouraged to get involved.
‘Their playing days might be over and some guys can find themselves on their own at home. This gets them out and socialising. It’s been really great,’ Mr Garton said.
There are also plans for a competition in the UK in October too.
One team from Jersey and one team from Guernsey plan to travel to compete against six UK teams.
Walking football sessions cost £3 each and are held on Tuesday at Fort Regent between 10 am and 11 am and on Thursday at Springfield ball court between 9.30 am and 10.30 am.
