Team sport isn't just for kids
Modified forms of popular games like football and netball make it possible for older Australians to participate.
Links to get you started
Walking Football Australia – Read all about the “Walkeroos” and the world championships, being held in Brisbane in May 2006,.
Walking Netball is played in Victoria, NSW, Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia.
Walking hockey is popular in Tasmania.
Queensland Rugby League runs adaptive and all-abilities programs that may be suitable for older players.
Across Australia, team sports designed for older adults are growing in popularity, offering a fun and inclusive way for seniors to stay active while maintaining strong social connections.
Modified formats such as walking football, walking netball, and walking hockey are proving that team sport is not just for the young and fast.
Walking football is perhaps the best-known example. Adapted from traditional soccer, it removes running and physical contact, focusing instead on positioning, passing, and teamwork.
This makes it accessible for people over 50 and beyond, including those managing joint issues or returning to exercise after illness or injury.
In Australia, walking football programs now operate in most states, often supported by local councils, community clubs, and football associations.
Similar adaptations exist across other sports. Walking netball, promoted widely through Netball Australia and state bodies, follows the same principle: no running, no jumping, and a strong emphasis on participation rather than competition.
Walking AFL and masters-level modified cricket and hockey also provide pathways for seniors who want the camaraderie of a team environment without the physical strain of full-contact play.
The benefits extend well beyond physical fitness. Research consistently shows that regular, moderate activity improves balance, cardiovascular health, and mobility in older adults.
Just as importantly, team sports combat social isolation, which is a significant issue for many older people, particularly after retirement or bereavement. Training sessions often become social events, complete with post-game coffees, and strong, supportive peer networks.
Australia’s ageing population makes these programs especially relevant. With more of us living longer and healthier lives, demand is increasing for activities that support “active ageing”.
Community sport organisations are responding by offering low-cost, local sessions that welcome beginners and emphasise enjoyment over performance. Many programs are mixed-gender and culturally inclusive, reflecting Australia’s diverse communities.
Another strength of senior team sports is their flexibility. Games are often shorter, played on smaller fields or courts, and easily adapted to suit different fitness levels. This ensures participants can progress at their own pace, building confidence alongside fitness.
In short, team sports for seniors are redefining what ageing looks like. They promote movement, connection, and purpose, proving that staying active doesn’t have to mean pushing limits. Sometimes, it just means putting one foot in front of the other.
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