The program, run by Canterbury Bankstown Council in partnership with Bankstown North Soccer Club and Football NSW, will bring fantastic football fun to locals over 50, but with a twist… running is not allowed.
Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Khal Asfour said the free Walking Football program is a great opportunity for seniors to get active outdoors, make new friends, and improve their health and fitness.
“Walking football is a low impact, team-based exercise for over 50s,” Mayor Asfour said.
“It’s a fantastic way to incorporate gentle exercise in a fun and social environment.”
There are no prior skills required and the rules of the game are simple: Strictly no contact with the players; Players must always have one foot on the ground; The ball cannot be kicked above head height; There is no heading of the ball; There are no ‘referees’ as such and the competitive angle is kept to a minimum; and Focus on having fun and making friends.
Sonya Pham, 62, and a walking basketball participant, said that Council’s walking sports helped her learn new skills and make friends with similar interests.
“I had never played basketball before I joined the program, but the coach and team were really friendly and taught me how to play,” Ms Pham said.
“I looked forward to seeing my new friends every week and catching up for coffee and lunch after the game, it was the highlight of my week,” she said.
“I will definitely be joining Walking Football, and I encourage all seniors to come along and have some fun.”
The new Walking Football begins Friday, February 11, and will be held every Friday, 10-11.30am at Graf Park, Yagoona.
Registrations: cb.city/WalkingFootball or 9707 5495.
