Foot on the floor for walking game

Football West is scoping out local interest for its pending Walking Football program in Albany, designed to keep over-50s active and social.

A pilot competition will begin in September, and an exhibition match will be held at half-time during this year’s Great Southern Soccer Association’s men’s social/vets cup final on September 24.

Football West Great Southern development officer Sarthak Mishra said the rules were simple: one foot must always be placed on the ground, and the ball cannot be kicked higher than 2m.

“It is important for us to introduce non-traditional formats of football to make sure anyone and everyone can enjoy the sport,” he said.

“I’m very excited and positive about the launch of Walking Football and hoping to see senior members of our community enjoy the game and social aspect of it.

“We’ll be contacting key stakeholder organisations and individuals such as the Senior Citizen Centre, Football clubs, City of Albany and online groups to assist them with the registrations of the program.”

Polonia Football Club secretary Tracey Reed said her love of the spirit of the game and meeting new people had attracted her to walking football.

“It’s good for over-50 people that just want to do something, keeping themselves active and motivated,” she said.