Walking football coming for bayside seniors

IT DOESN’T matter if you call it football or soccer — the call has gone out for bayside seniors wanting to try a new sport where running is against the rules.

JOHN Crispin has never played football in his life.

But at the grand old age of 80, he’s about to give it a try.

The Tingalpa man is one of the first to sign up for walking football — a new sporting initiative being organised by Bayside United Football Club and Wynnum 60 and Better.

Walking football is coming to bayside.

On Wednesday, Mr Crispin and several other converts had their first taste of the sport with city councillor Peter Cumming, Member for Lytton Joan Pease and Federal Member for Bonnar, Ross Vasta.

He said he liked what he saw.

“It just appeals to me,” he said.

“I’ve got a bad knee and I’ve had an operation on it, so I’m a bit restricted.

“I’ve never played soccer but if it’s just walking around it will be easy on my knee and good for my health.

“I’m looking forward to it but I guess I’ll have to learn the rules first.”

Those rules are pretty simple, according to Greg Pascall from Bayside United FC.

Basically, it’s six-a-side soccer on a smaller field — and definitely no running allowed.

“It’s a walking game,” Mr Pascall said.

“You can have a bit of a shuffle but it’s more just passing around.

“It’s designed for elderly and seniors and the idea is that they come along, get off the lounge and get fit.”

The club plans to run two competitions next year — one for 50-59 year olds and the other for over 60s.

Colleen Firth from Wynnum 60 and Better said she expected walking football would appeal to many members.

“We were looking for an activity that would draw on the newly retired people who don’t see themselves as seniors, who are still relatively active and are inclined, especially the men, to become isolated ... to stay at home and not do anything because they are no longer in the economy,” she said.

“So we thought this would be a really great way to get them out into a team event and playing with other people and keeping them active.

“As long as they can walk, they can play walking football.”

If you would like more information on walking football, call Greg Pascall on 0417 717398, email [e-mail] or drop into the Wynnum 60 and Better.