Virginia United FC launches walking football

Walking football — a low-impact, slower version of soccer — is being introduced at a north Brisbane club.

Anthony Costa and Anna Mehel are promoting Walking Football at Virginia United Football Club. Picture: AAP/Richard Walker

WALKING Football — a low-impact, slower version of soccer — is coming to Nundah.

Virginia United Football Club is introducing the program later this month as a way to increase engagement with the community, especially with older players.

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However Walking Football is not just for those who think they are too old to play a normal game.

Anthony Costa and Anna Mehel, who plays in the women’s premier league team, are promoting Walking Football at Virginia United Football Club. Picture: AAP/Richard Walker

Co-ordinator Anthony Costa said he was keen to make the program more inclusive.

“I want the community engagement to be as wide as possible,” he said.

“Most walking football is targeted to the elderly. But I know there are a lot of parents who also want to play with their children and kids who want to play with their siblings but gender, age, ability or disability have always been an issue.

“We’re really excited to try to get more people involved in the game.

“For those who can’t get involved or can’t play a normal game, we’re quite excited to be able to offer them something different to keep them involved in the sport.”

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Mr Costa said walking football had many benefits — it had less impact and a quicker recovery rate than fast-paced sports, was very social and relaxed, and was for people of any fitness level.

Games will be played in teams of five or six on a small grass field and there is no running or jogging, only walking.

The program is also very flexible, with participants paying a small fee only on the nights they turn up.

Anthony Costa and Anna Mehel at Virginia United Football Club. Picture: AAP/Richard Walker

Mr Costa said the club sent out a survey to members recently and, within a couple days, about 20 people expressed an interest in Walking Football.

“It’s been quite a positive response. We’ve had a lot of interest from parents of soccer players, and managers and coaches of junior teams, and some from people who know someone whose dad or brother may be interested.”

This is Mr Costa’s first year at Virginia UFC, where he is head of female football and coaches the premier league women’s team. He has been coaching for about 12 years.

“I love how competitive soccer can be but it’s also very social. And I love how anyone can play the game,” he said.

Walking Football will be separated into two categories — under 50 years and over 50.

It starts on Friday, July 19 from 6.30-7.45pm at Virginia UFC, 547 Nudgee Rd, Nundah.

Walking Football is also offered at North Lakes, Kelvin Grove, Newmarket and Coorparoo.

For more information visit virginiaunitedfc.com.au