WALKING BASKETBALL | SENIORS FESTIVAL SUCCESS

Basketball Australia / Seniors Festival / Walking Basketball
Written by Jaylee Ismay
13 May, 2021

Basketball NSW is excited to announce that the 2021 Seniors Festival was a massive success, evidenced by the smiles on the faces of those who attended our Walking Basketball events over the past month. 

Walking Basketball is a low-impact, social and fun way to improve the levels of physical activity for inactive and slightly active Australians, including those recovering from injury. 

During April, BNSW assisted in facilitating over 20 Walking Basketball sessions across the state, in addition to the regularly delivered programs, to provide an opportunity for participants in the 50+ age bracket to get on court and socialise in a supportive environment. 

The extended Senior festival encompassed 26 locations as far North as Ballina all the way down to South Sydney so that more people than ever try their hand at the modified sport in a free come and try session. Each session encompassed a number of warm up activities, followed by skill development before a game on court. Another wonderful aspect of the sessions was the morning tea was provided afterwards which was an excellent way for participants to socialise and provide feedback on if they will continue to participate in Walking Basketball.

BNSW Community Growth Programs Administrator, Amy Nolan said that she was excited to see so many new participants either pick up a ball for the first time or that are looking to get back into playing the game they love.

“Everyone who came along thoroughly enjoyed themselves and wanted to participate in more sessions.  They loved the idea of being able to play the sport they loved or try something new and hoped more people would become involved in the future.” said Nolan.

“The commitment shown by many of our associations and councils across NSW is a true testament to the support of running programs such as Walking Basketball for people that want to continue to play and be active but not necessary at a high level. It is designed to have the social aspect incorporated with mobility inclusion so that all walks of life can participate and learn new skills. I hope that these sessions can continue to run at the association level after the great feedback we have received.” 

BNSW continues to work with our associations in facilitating a number of weekly Walking Basketball sessions or Term 2.  We have 3 new programs starting this week at Sutherland Sharks Basketball Association, Hills Hornets Basketball Association and Central Coast Waves Basketball. While Tamworth Basketball Association moves into week 2 while programs at Bankstown, Hawkesbury, Ryde, Winston Hills, Cooma, Hornsby & Manly continue to run (walk) strong. We are always looking to offer additional programs, so if you are interested in hosting or being involved, please get in touch. 

New participants are welcome to any program at all times – programs are either FREE or $5/session so a great opportunity to come give Walking Basketball a try.

For more information please visit https://www.bnsw.com.au/walking-basketball/ or contact Amy amy.nolan@bnsw.com.au or 87658555