WHEN 60-year-old Queensland woman Linda Thomas was looking for a sport to try while recovering from a knee replacement, she heard about walking netball.
This slower modified version of netball is is a fully inclusive sport that welcomes peoples of all ages, regardless of ability or fitness levels. It's aimed at people with joint and balance issues, and there's no running or jumping.
Linda brought along her husband Kevin and the pair gave the game a go. That was a year ago, and since then they've roped in their kids, and even grandkids, with all three generations playing regularly.
Next week the Thomas family will be joining hundreds of other walking netball fans in the inaugural BallyCara Walking Netball Carnival in Brisbane.
The event takes place at the Queensland Netball Centre - home of the Firebirds - in Nathan on September 8.
"We have really enjoyed getting back into regular exercise," Linda Thomas said. "I've met new friends through walking netball and it's a really enjoyable part of my week," she said.
Daughter Melissa Berado, 46, wanted to maintain fitness while looking after a back issue. "With walking netball I'm still involved in regular exercise and it doesn't aggravate my back problems," she said.
Walking Netball program manager Rhonda Newton said the carnival tapped into a growing demand.
"We know that older Queenslanders want to stay fit and continue to play team sports in a social context, but until now there has been little to answer that need.
"They need a sport that caters to older joints and those with potential balance issues or slowing reflexes along with all the other niggles that we all face as we get older.
"Walking netball is the answer. It's slower, there's no running or jumping and the rules are modified to reflect ability.
Launched a year ago in Queensland, walking netball has grown quickly to be played in 25 centres throughout Queensland, as far north as Townsville and down to the NSW border.
"It's a rapidly growing sport. People come together to play and then they socialise afterwards over a coffee or a cold drink, creating valuable social connections and giving emotional support to those who are looking to build their networks," Ms Newton said.
The BallyCara Walking Netball Carnival will also include walking football and pickleball.
"This will become a real celebration of sport for older athletes," Ms Newston said. "There's more on offer for older people who want to stay fit than water aerobics and golf."
"We have long seen the benefits of ageing well through our various wellness programs for seniors throughout South East Queensland and the partnership with Netball Queensland will further enhance our focus and dedication of encouraging and supporting all ages to live a healthy and happy life," he said.
"We look forward to being a part of the netball family and engaging with communities across the state."
What is walking netball?
Walking Netball is a variation of netball, designed for people who want to play the game at a slower pace through modified rules.
Rules include four seconds to pass the ball (instead of three), an extra step on catching the ball to help players to stabilise themselves before passing the ball, and players must be four feet away when defending.
For details on where to play walking netball in Queensland click HERE
For details on the BallyCara Walking Netball Carnival click HERE or phone (07) 3184 6899
Geraldine Cardozo
Features Editor at The Senior.
Features Editor at The Senior.
