A HOCKEY enthusiast from Leamington is aiming to help people over 50 rediscover their sporting youth.
Natalie Carroll was inspired to set up a ‘walking hockey’ group where she works at St Nicholas Park Leisure Centre to encourage the older generation to socialise, have fun and keep fit.
The sessions are similar to a regular game of hockey, only walking, with a slightly bigger ball.
The 41-year-old told the Observer: “I loved hockey when I was younger and thought those days were over. I never thought I’d recapture those days of playing, feeling part of a team and socialising together afterwards. But I picked it up again later in life and really want to let others have that chance too.
“The beauty of walking hockey is that any person, of any age, fitness or ability can participate due to the pace of the game.
“Sessions are made fun and friendly so participants can feel that there’s no pressure to perform and that having a laugh with each other is more important than the scoreline.”
Natalie, who is also a swimming teacher, has an appetite for all things active including spinning, cycling and weights as well as surfing in the summer and snowboarding in winter.
She added: “Exercise for me is about releasing the happy hormones in my body which keeps my overall sense of wellbeing in check.
“I love being outdoors and taking part in any kind of activity whether it is high or low intensity with like minded people.
“Meeting up every week and being a part of a team is a fantastic feeling that I thought wouldn’t possible at the age of 40 but walking hockey provides this opportunity for anyone who wants to find new friends, have fun and be active.”
The sessions run at the leisure centre in Warwick on Wednesdays from noon to 1pm.
Email [email protected] for more information.
Those in the area over 50 are also eligible for a free walking sports session at the leisure centre.
Visit www.justgetactive.co.uk/get-involved/my-just-get-active for details.
