ALAN Templeton found it hard to kick the habit when he was forced to give up football at the age of 54, but 10 years later, he is once again enjoying the game he loves.
The lifelong football fan is the founder and coordinator of Walking Football Brisbane - a slower, more low impact version of the world game.
Alan said the six on six game was ideal for seniors who wished to stay fit and active without the pain that comes with fast paced sports.
He said the game was also a great way of making new friends and improving cognitive skills.
Alan first heard about the game while watching popular football program the Keys & Gray Show and having missed the game since reluctantly giving it away, he knew it was ideal for him.
"I still wanted to play, but knew my body just couldn't handle the pace of outdoor football any more," he said.
He investigated and after finding out there were no leagues in Brisbane, he decided to start one himself in mid 2017.
The league kicked off in North Lakes in January 2018 and has since expanded to Newmarket and Coorparoo.
There are currently around 90-100 regular players and approximately 200 casual ones ranging in age from 48 to 81.
Alan said the organisation hosted its first major tournament at QUT Stadium this year. Plans are in place for a trip to Japan next year and an Australasian Cup which would include some teams from the Pacific Islands and Asia.
He said the club would love to hear from new people who were interested in giving the game a try.
"Walking football is for anyone who is keen to get off their backside and be part of a team environment and it's a great way of dealing with social isolation."
"I'm delighted I heard about walking football. It's changed the lives of so many people."
The organisation hosts games at North Lakes from 3-5pm on Sundays, Newmarket from 12.30-2.30pm on Wednesdays and 12-2pm on Sundays and Coorparoo from 2-4pm on Saturdays.
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