THE inaugural Walking Football Charity Shield is set to debut at the Coffs Coast Synthetics on Saturday, 1 March, bringing with it a mix of sporting action and community goodwill.
The new initiative from Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak, with the support of North Coast Football, promises to deliver more than just goals.
Proceeds will go towards initiatives like community football scholarships for local juniors, ensuring a lasting impact beyond the pitch.
Ian Leach, secretary of Rotary Daybreak and an enthusiastic advocate for walking football, explained the growing appeal of the sport.
“It’s soccer but not as we know it. Walking only, no running,” he said.
“As a new soccer code, it’s growing very quickly, and the great thing about it is that it’s totally inclusive.
“All ages, all abilities, and mixed teams are the norm – the walking factor is the great leveller.”
The sport’s accessibility is evident in the local scene, where participants span generations.
“On Wednesday evenings at the Coffs Synthetics, we usually have fifteen to 20 players, both male and female, ranging from mid-20s to ‘Will’, our marvellous 82-year-old, walking around, scoring goals, and having a great time.”
The game itself is a scaled-down version of traditional soccer, played on a quarter-sized field with small goals and minimal physical contact.
Teams consist of six players on the field at a time, with squads of up to ten to allow for rotations.
Ian encouraged newcomers to give it a go.
“If you want to get involved, come down to the Synthetics at 5:45pm on a Wednesday.
“It’s a really friendly group and if you want more information on how to enter a team in the event, just give us a call on 0417 045 567.”
READ MORE at source: https://www.newsofthearea.com.au/walking-football-strolls-into-coffs-harbour-for-the-charity-shield
Author: The Walking Football
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