WHILE many spend their golden years putting the tools down and taking a step back to relax, the Port Macquarie Pina Koalas are taking to the field this Saturday as part of the town’s first walking football tournament.
With all ages and abilities encouraged to come along, the tournament is touted to be the perfect introduction to what is a growing world sport.
“Attendees can expect to learn the main rules and some of the basic skills of the game,” Vanessa Crago, the Director of OzVentures told News Of The Area.
“They get the chance to join a team and play for real, with the Pina Koalas coaching them to have the best fun ever.”
Walking football was first introduced in 2011 by John Croot, a football development officer at Chesterfield FC in England.
The sport offers a slower-paced alternative to traditional football, specifically designed for older adults or individuals with limited mobility who want to stay active and enjoy the game in a safe, social environment.
A minimal-contact sport, running is forbidden at all times when the ball is in play; each player is allowed unlimited touches of the ball; no tackling is allowed from behind or to the side; and there is no heading of the ball.
Embodying the spirit of the game with a focus on passing and team strategy without the need for running, the sport is growing in popularity.
The Australian Walkaroos sent eight teams to compete in Malmo, Sweden, earlier this year, and the women’s Foreveroos will be competing in the FIWFA World Nations Cup in Torrevieja, Spain, in October.
“Walking soccer is a fun way to get [and stay] fit,” Ms Crago said.
“Studies show regular play improves balance, coordination, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness.
“It is a great option for people who have been unable to play team sports due to physical injury or disability, and want the chance to compete.
“The slower pace makes it accessible to a much wider audience.
“Many of the Pina Koalas never played soccer before, and are finding it a fun way to improve confidence as well as fitness.”
The Pina Koalas took their skills to the bigger stage last year at the Pacific Masters Games on the Gold Coast.
Over 350 players from across Australia attended along with teams from Scotland and New Zealand.
The Port Macquarie Pina Koalas are now giving 40 players (or non-players with enthusiasm) a chance to give this new version of football a try at West Port Macquarie Tennis Club on Saturday August 9, from 11am.
Visit Port Macquarie Walking Football on Facebook for more information and a link to register.
By Rikki WALLER
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