Weekend walk in the park

Walking football is set to take centre stage, for several hours, at Peninsula Power’s AJ Kelly Park ground on Saturday.

Four teams have entered a Peninsula Power Walking Football (PPWF) tournament which is a curtain-raiser to Power’s NPL clash with Brisbane Strikers (5pm).

The tournament, from 2-4.30pm with 30-minute games, will showcase this growing format of the sport …. but with no contact or running.

For all ages

Paddy Higgins, one of the driving forces behind PPWF, says walking football began for those over 50, but that has now changed.

“A decision has been made to open up walking football for players of all ages and genders,” says Paddy, “there’s also an emphasis on those who, within reason, have individual needs (medical, physical).

“We are expressly looking to involve more women in our version of the game. It’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone who loves football to participate at an easier pace.”

Flying start

Walking Football started in Brisbane three years ago, but it was November last year before it came to the peninsula.

“I went to a (Brisbane) Roar game in early 2019 and picked up a flyer (about walking football),” says Paddy

“We had to travel to North Lakes, or Newmarket midweek, Coorparoo on Saturdays to play. That’s when we decided to start up over here.

“I spoke to Craig Feuerriegel (Peninsula Power president), who is very progressive and he embraced it.”

Expansion plans

PPWF has 32 members who play every Wednesday from 6.30-8pm, but there are plans to start midweek daytime sessions from 10am.

Newcomers are welcome, no experience of walking football or the wider game is needed. “It is come along and try and we will assist from there,” says Paddy.

Games are typically five or six-a-side and held over four 20-minute quarters. Players joining PPWF pay $30 per year, $15 of that goes to Football Queensland for insurance.

Contact Paddy Higgins on 0451 434121, visit the Peninsula Power Walking Football Facebook page or walkingfootballbrisbane.com.au

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