WALKING Basketball got off to a successful start in Leongatha on Tuesday morning, offering exercise and social opportunities for everyone, including those with limited mobility.
While participants are divided into teams, designated by bib colour, the emphasis is on fun rather than competition.
The sessions at Splash stadium are free for the first three months, with a small playing fee thereafter.
Organiser Corie Blackley, of Korumburra, is an avid basketballer and got into the walking version of the game after a knee injury, playing in various locations.
He prefers to get his exercise playing sport rather than going for a walk or to gym.
That sentiment is shared by Anne Parkes of Mount Eccles, who enjoys exercising in a team environment and decided to give Walking Basketball a go after seeing it promoted in the Sentinel-Times.
She credits her military background and history of playing numerous sports for her love of a team environment.
“It was always team in the military; you’re only as good as your weakest link,” Anne said.
Her daughter Emma and grandson Jaxen also took the court for Tuesday’s session.
Kathy Perry of Basketball Victoria said the slower version of the game began about five years ago in metropolitan locations and has since spread to country areas, including Maryborough, the hometown of famous Australian basketballer Matthew Dellavedova.
“For those people attending, it was really about the connection to community, and the cup of tea afterwards is as important as the activity on the court,”
Kathy said.
“There are some people who have played basketball for many years and then not been able to play, so to get back into the game at a pace that suited them was really important to them,” she added, noting the significance of making friendships and catching up with mates.
Kathy looks forward to Leongatha Walking Basketball participants becoming a real community.
For those keen to join in, sessions get underway at 10.30am each Tuesday at Splash, Leongatha, excluding today (Melbourne Cup).
