As the FIFA World Cup brings soccer into focus, more seniors are discovering how to enjoy the game without running, tackling, or worrying about injuries.
On May 14, members of the Toronto Loons Walking Soccer Club introduced walking soccer to participants at Milliken On The Move, a seniors group at Markham’s Milliken Community Centre. This is part of their effort to promote the sport throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
For Ally Yuan, a member of the group, it was a revelation that soccer can be enjoyable even for those who have never played before.
“I’ve never played soccer before,” she said, “but the pace is manageable and it’s so much fun.”
After spending about 40 minutes on the field, she mentioned she was hardly sweating and would happily play again.
Walking soccer is a modified version of traditional soccer where players must keep at least one foot on the ground at all times. The game takes place on a smaller field with rules designed to minimize physical contact and make it more accessible for older adults, as well as individuals recovering from injuries or facing mobility issues.
The Toronto Loons Walking Soccer Club started three years ago when founder Kerrin Hands began playing at Woodbine Park with around 15 others. Since then, they’ve grown to about 140 members aged between their 50s and 80s. The co-ed club invites women over 40 and men over 50 to join.
“There is no running or jogging,” said Mike Otter, an ambassador for the club. He pointed out that this sport gives older adults an opportunity to stay active while enjoying friendly competition and building social connections. There are potential benefits like better cardiovascular health, balance, coordination, and mental well-being.
Safety is a top priority. Although running, heading, and physical contact are not allowed in games, trained personnel are present during all Toronto Loons matches according to Otter. CPR equipment and an automated external defibrillator are also readily available on site.
With Canada set to co-host the upcoming FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico, the club aims to let older adults take part in this growing excitement around soccer regardless of their age or experience level.
The Toronto Loons have been working hard to promote walking soccer across Ontario over recent years. Otter shared that they have previously held demonstrations in Peterborough and are reaching out to places like Newmarket, Barrie, Mississauga, Vaughan, and Niagara region to help establish new programs.
You can find more information about the Toronto Loons Walking Soccer Club along with details on upcoming games online at torontowalkingsoccer. com.
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