No age limit to spirited soccer
The Newcastle Over-50 soccer team keeps physically and mentally fit through the sport.
A small group of seniors are proof that being active is as much mental as it is physical.
Despite each member being over half a century old, the Newcastle Over-50 soccer team is in its prime and playing with heart and determination.
That spirit was put to the test in a tournament played last weekend.
Founders stated the team was specifically opened to compete in the Northern Suburbs Sports Initiative’s (NSSI) tournament in Pietermaritzburg on Saturday, a round-robin competition comprised of five ‘Maritzburg teams, four Durban sides and one from Newcastle.
April 5 was the first time the tourney was hosted.
“It all started with the NSSI invite,” explained team member Vincent Muthoo.
“Our team features ex-professional footballers from Dynamos, Young Spurs, Stella, Madadeni and more.”
Mr Muthoo said the team had practised for just three weeks preceding the tournament, describing the players as competitive but unsure how they racked up against others.
Since its founding, Newcastle Over-50 hopes to create interest among older players keen on participating.
“Keeping fit is is important. It helps health and improves the mental state, and we honestly love the game too much to sit back.”
Newcastle Over-50 begins practises with stretching and running, before playing a friendly ball game.
All prospective players beyond the half-century mark can contact Mr Muthoo on 083 722 7473 or Roy Harrypersadh on 082 440 1710 for more information.
