SANFL ECH Walking Footy to make a comeback

Wednesday, September 22

By SANFL Media

After a successful trial season in 2019, SANFL ECH Walking Footy is set to return next month with free come and try sessions and a new season of competition.

SANFL ECH Walking Footy is a six-side mixed team game which has no running or tackling and is played on a field the size of a basketball court. The concept was co-designed by SANFL and leading home care provider ECH, in conjunction with participants, to offer a fun, safe and inclusive modified game of Aussie Rules footy.

Walking Footy will be relaunched to coincide with Active Ageing Week (4-10 October), which celebrates ageing and the benefits of active living at any age.

SANFL Head of Game Development Brad Humphrey said it would be great to once again be offering over 50s with the opportunity to get involved in the newest form of Australian football, South Australia’s most participated club sport.

“Whether you’ve ever played the game of football or not, ECH Walking Footy is an excellent way to meet new people, stay connected with the community and enjoy exercise in a fun environment,” Mr Humphrey said.

“When competition Walking Footy started pre-Covid, we had 70 participants registered to play, all of whom are now eager for a new season to finally kick off.”

ECH Chief Executive Dr David Panter said ECH was thrilled to relaunch Walking Footy for Active Ageing Week and demonstrate that no matter your age, you can find new ways to get outdoors and be active.

“Staying physically and mentally active is vital. There are many ways for older people to include movement in their daily life and regular participation in sport or other physical activities has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health,” said Dr Panter.

“Connecting with others, learning new skills, making an ongoing contribution to society, and doing the things that give a sense of purpose are all important to ageing well.”

Come and try sessions will be held at Walkerville Football Club on October 5, Thebarton Oval on October 6, and AFL Max on October 12.

 The season is due to start on October 26 and will culminate with a finals series on November 30.

The cost to play is $10 per session or $50 upfront for a six-week season. Participants who registered and paid in full in 2020 will be offered a free season of competition.

More information on Walking Footy and future come and try sessions are available on the SANFL website here.

About ECH

ECH is a leading not-for-profit provider of services that promote self-determination and enable people to have the best possible life as they age. ECH supports more than 15,000 people and employs more than 650 staff, including nurses, home support staff, allied and other health professionals and administrators.