One of the best things about the Walking Netball eight-week programs is that participants can join in at any stage throughout the program in order to enjoy the benefits of an hour of friendly drills and competition play.
With programs running throughout NSW until early December, participants are relishing the opportunity to get back out on the court.
One of the pilot programs was carried out at the Parramatta Auburn Netball Association and first-time participant Therese Sloane attended her first class in week three of the program.
“Today was my first day and I enjoyed it lots. I’ve been around netball all my life. I haven’t played for a number of years so this is my opportunity to get back into playing something I do enjoy and have watched my daughters and granddaughters play,” she said.
It’s not just all drills and exercise, as Ms. Sloane found out, with laughter and smiles bountiful amongst the group of 14 enjoying the program.
“I met a lovely lot ladies today and enjoyed the exercises and also found that I need to practice my shooting if I intend to keep coming as a competitive shooter, but I thoroughly enjoyed today and I will endeavour to come every week,” she shared.
A focus of the eight-week program is to build the ball skills and abilities of participants, ensuring that a full range of movement is experienced.
“I did enjoy the drills. It loosened up my stiff old body a bit. There was no pressure on the drills, and you just do them the best you can. No one gets told to go back and start again. You just keep continuing along what you’re doing,” Ms. Sloane explained.
Attending her first session with other participants who had been to the two previous sessions didn’t cause any issues for Ms. Sloane as she enjoyed the chance to be active outside.
“I didn’t feel like I was behind anyone at all just starting today. Maybe fitness wise, but I guess that improves as you go along. But (with regards to) netball skills, everyone’s pretty much the same no judgment.”
Walking Netball provides anyone – no matter their ability level – the opportunity to get out and appreciate playing the sport, which millions of people around the world enjoy.
Ms. Sloane summarises the class perfectly, “some [participants] are good, some bad… but you know it’s just all for fun and to get you out to enjoy something that you like to do.”
With a few weeks left of the term 3 Walking Netball programs and more starting in term 4 across NSW, participants can join for a low cost at any stage during the program online at www.playwalkingnetball.com.au.
