Walking is a good and popular way to stay active, but what if you can add some kick to it?
You might just have a ball. Just like the 50-plussers who come out to play walking football in the hall of Sarepta Sport and Recreation Centre on Friday evenings.
Former soccer players Clive Petersen and Joseph Daniels brought the game to Sarepta in June last year.
While the sport is still a fairly new concept locally there was a World Cup event held last year.
Petersen explained it is basically like five-a-side football, but “no running, no contact and no high balls” are allowed. “At the posts, you only kick with your inner foot because of safety,” he said.
Everyone welcome
Petersen, who has played soccer from age 9, was a sceptic when he was introduced to walking football at age 60. “I thought it was for old people. Seven years later I’m still enjoying it.”
He said it’s all about staying active. There is no membership fee to join in the fun.
“Last year a few guys gave R100, but I don’t want people to stay away if they don’t have money. It is not about money, but about staying active, and healthy – and then there is the social part.”
Though many of the players are former soccer players, no-one needs to feel intimidated, Petersen said.
“We don’t want someone to feel left out if they don’t have the same level of skills. We don’t cut you out, we will pass the ball – if you miss, the game goes on – the spirit is fantastic.”
Around 15 to 20 people, mostly from Kuils River but also further afield, come out to play in the hall on Fridays from 18:00 to 20:00.
Among the regular players are two men, aged 75 and 78 years old.
Women are welcome to join a mixed team as the no-contact rule works in favour of all. The purpose is to have fun and socialise while the exercise will improve blood flow and strengthen those muscles.
Everyone is invited to join the local walking football community. As the adage goes: “A stranger is only a friend you haven’t met.” Petersen said it beats sitting at home doing nothing, waiting for old age to creep up on one. “I tell people I may be getting older but I’m not getting old.”
John Fourie (66) said he looks forward to Friday nights. “The guys are fun and uplift me with their positive attitude.”
Robert Clark (69) said walking football brings out the child in him who used to play in the street. “Friday evening is a permanent appointment in my diary. I love the fun, exercise, sweat and great friendships.”
Contact Petersen on 060 525 8494 for more information. (An alternative venue will be used on Friday 8 March as the City of Cape Town will use the hall.)
