Being light-footed while trying to keep your feet planted is harder than it looks.
Walking netball has started in Marlborough, and I gave it a go to see if the no running or jumping rules would make the game a walk in the park.
Turns out, it’s hard not to cheat, but it’s a lot of fun trying to toe the line.
I was initially given a goal shoot bib when I showed my face at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 on Tuesday morning, but I switched to centre at halftime after missing every shot.
The encouraging cheers had died down slightly after my fourth or fifth unsuccessful goal attempt.
Playing centre was when I got a proper feel for the new set of rules anyway, as I got lots of chances to pass and defend as I power walked up and down the court.
The match ended with a relatively even scoreline, so I don’t think I was too much of a liability.
After my surprisingly high heart rate came down, I had the chance to reflect on the experience — it was highly enjoyable. And though competitive, walking netball in Marlborough is truly a social sport.
Laura McLean had played every week since organised walking netball arrived in the region earlier this year, as she loved netball and was keen to exercise, but had “too many injuries” to play the running version…
Walking netball is held 9.30am-10.30am on Tuesday mornings at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 in Blenheim, and costs $2 per game. Participants must be over 18 years of age and all genders and abilities are welcome. No uniforms are necessary, and bibs are supplied.
READ MORE at source: https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/350352039/marlborough-walking-netball-its-hard-not-run
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