The modified version of the game is helping get adults back into team sport. Photo: Supplied.
A modified format of football will be front and centre this weekend when Football South Coast hosts its annual walking football tournament.
The Walk The Field Tournament promotes inclusivity and greater participation in the game allowing players to reap the physical, social and mental benefits of team sport with a reduced risk of injury.
This year’s event is set to be the biggest yet with 29 teams and 160 players participating from across the region and beyond.
“What players enjoy most is the social side and the fun that they have with other players,” Football South Coast Walking Football Co-ordinator Joe Seco said.
“You can gain new skills and friendships by joining.”
Walking football is a low-impact, non-contact version of the game which reduces strain on players’ bodies, with no running, smaller pitches, and fewer players.
It’s designed to promote physical and mental health, particularly for older adults or people returning from injury, who want to get moving in a supportive environment, and has attracted long-time players and those new to the sport.
The tournament, which is hosted by Football South Coast and supported by the University of Wollongong, has divisions for men over 50, women over 40 and mixed social and competitive competitions to ensure there are opportunities for players of all levels and abilities.
In its third year, the event shines a spotlight on the sport to encourage more people to get involved.
With walking football gaining momentum, the tournament hopes to be the spark for lifelong participation and attract people who may have thought team sports were no longer accessible to them.
Football South Coast holds weekly ‘Come and Try’ sessions year-round and there are local clubs that also host their own social games, with some players representing Australia in the sport.
“The best part is the laughter and smiles all day,” Football South Coast Football Manager Sonya Keir said. “It’s not just about the football tournament; it’s about people connecting, feeling valued, and rediscovering their love for the game.”
The University of Wollongong’s support creates a unique opportunity for public relations students to gain real-world professional training in promoting and delivering an event which is a highlight to many players in the Illawarra football community.
“With the help of UOW, the event is the best of the walking football I have attended due to its organisation,” player Neil Balbirnie said. “It’s the social and competitive benefits that I love.”
While registrations for players are closed, spectators are encouraged to join the celebration and learn about the potential of modified sport in the Illawarra community.
The tournament is on Saturday 24 May at Ian McLennan Park at Kembla Grange.
For more details about it or to learn more about walking football visit the Football South Coast website.
