More Ku-ring-gai seniors are set to hit the courts and sporting fields in the coming months, as a further three sporting codes offer modified rules for players over 65 years of age.

Member for Ku-ring-gai, Alister Henskens SC MP, announced the NSW Government will invest an additional $100,000 to get Basketball, Softball and Table Tennis NSW on board with a modified program, while also expanding the successful pilot with Football NSW.

“Sport not only promotes good health, it also engenders great community spirit and all members of our community should be able to join in, regardless of their age,” Mr Henskens said.

“I encourage all seniors in our community to participate in a modified sport. I am certain that they will enjoy the benefits of physical activity and social interaction.”

Minister for Ageing, Tanya Davies, said the NSW Government wants to support and encourage seniors to make physical activity part of their everyday routine.

“Participating in sport helps people lead healthy, active and happy lives. Unfortunately, as people get older the opportunities to engage in physical activity can often decrease,” Mrs Davies said. 

“The Modified Sport Program opens up opportunities for seniors to get out and get active by offering popular games with low impact rules, while also helping to build confidence and new social connections in their communities.”

Since May 2017, the NSW Government has provided $200,000 to six sporting codes to implement modified sporting programs for NSW seniors. Once the pilots are established clubs aim to sustain the program.

For more information, or to register, please contact the sporting associations below or visit www.facs.nsw.gov.au/modifiedsport:

• Football NSW – (02) 8814 4400 [email protected]  
• Basketball NSW – (02) 8765 8555 [email protected] 
• Softball NSW – (02) 9677 4000 [email protected]     
• Table Tennis NSW – (02) 8736 2166 [email protected] 
• Gymnastics NSW – (02) 8116 4113 [email protected]  
• Netball NSW – (02) 9951 5025 [email protected]