Docklands now home to accessible walking soccer

For people who have suffered a stroke or have Parkinson’s, finding a way to remain active can be difficult, however, walking football has been a saving grace for many. 

The modified version of soccer has a unique set of rules, including no running, no contact, and no ball above waist high, to ensure that it can be enjoyed by any player, irrespective of age, gender, ethnicity or ability. 

It’s a sport that Walking Football 4 Health Victoria president, Mick Trim, said is “low stress” and “suitable for anyone”. 

Walking Football 4 Health Victoria has recently launched a new community program in Docklands, with games played on Tuesdays between 2pm and 3pm at the Docklands Sports Courts. 

However, due to only being in its early stages in Docklands, Mr Trim can’t wait to see the sport grow within the community as it has in a number of other areas in the city. 

“We encourage families to come and play as a team. Some of our locations have three generations of families playing, from the age of seven and up into their seventies,” Mr Trim said. “There are not many sports where you can do this.” 

In areas where the walking football programs are well established, many participants have found a second home and a new way to remain active despite life throwing challenges their way. 

John and Ann Anderson are two walking football fanatics from the city’s north-east who play up to three times a week at games run by Walking Football 4 Health.

However, the reason behind their decision to begin playing has sadder origins. 

After John was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease the couple wanted to explore ways so that he could remain active, and they began looking into walking football. 

Since starting, not only has John reaped the health benefits but Ann has also found a new passion. 

It has helped John improve his balance and lengthen his stride while providing him with a new group of people to connect with, and a safe place to exercise. 

“It’s given me an outlet outside of my body and I’m on my way back to being better,” John said. 

He finds that by playing he feels his life is more balanced and that he is able to give back more to his family and friends. 

After coming along to a few games Ann became hooked too, and now she plays three times a week, including a game on the weekend when she plays with her grandchildren. 

“I come away from games feeling very exhilarated,” Ann said. 

If you’re a Docklander interested in joining, head down to Docklands Sports Courts on Tuesday afternoons or reach out to Walking Football 4 Health Victoria president Mick Trim if you have any questions. •