Soccer team steps up for silver

LOCAL soccer squad, the Ballarat Nuggets Walking Football Team, have returned from the recent the Australian Masters Games in Adelaide with a silver medal.

The competition took place in October and the team participated in the 60 years and above mixed division.

Captain, Alan Clark, said the team had to overcome several challenges including being without four of their regular teammates and losing their goalkeeper on the first day to injury.

“We had to draw on our own best resources to manage the difficulties,” he said. “We just ploughed ahead, did our best and enjoyed the competition.”

When taking into account the pre-tournament challenges, Clark said it was a great surprise to take home the silver medal.

“We outdid any of our hopes or expectations, so it was a fabulous surprise and we were all very happy with our efforts,” he said.

The team runs open sessions at Morshead Park on Thursdays from 7pm and Clark said anyone in the community is welcome to join the team and no experience is required.

“Walking football is a form of football that is played on a smaller pitch with six players in a team,” he said.

“It’s a less difficult form of the game than 11 a side football and its very suitable for people who want to continue the fun, fitness and friendship football provides.”