Spalding Sapphires walking netball group is taking exercise in its stride

If you fancy trying something new and taking life at a slower pace, why not try out this inclusive walking netball group?

The Spalding Sapphires group has been designed so that anyone can play regardless of their age or fitness level.

Attendees can enjoy a leisurely game of netball every Friday at the Castle Sports Complex between 1.30pm and 3pm.

Louise Etheridge is the goalkeeper of the group and decided to take part following a conversation with her friend who encouraged her to join.

She said: “It is such an inclusive group. We have teens, ladies in their 70s and 80s and men who take part - It is a lovely wide range of all ages and abilities.

“Friendships are formed which brings out the support for everyone.”

Louise explained she currently works from home and by going to the group it benefits her social life.

“It is just really nice to get out and meet people, it’s nice to meet up and have a chat as well as play netball and get a bit of exercise.”

The weekly sessions can be altered depending on the turn out on the day. Team members will normally start by doing some warm up exercises, small stretches, training activities and a game to finish.

Louise said: “We don’t turn anyone away, everyone is welcome. It is such a lovely atmosphere, so kind and welcoming.”

Recently the group competed in their first ever tournament where they battled against teams from across the county.

The Lincolnshire Walking Festival event was held in Stamford at the Blackstone Sports Club and was held in honour of the Ladies Netball World cup.

It included two categories which were the ‘competitive group’ and the ‘wiggle and giggles’ – the Spalding Sapphires were among the top five teams who qualified for the latter group.

Louise took part in the tournament on the day and said: “ We had to adjust to the outdoor conditions and weather changes as we are used to playing indoors – overall we won three out of four games and drew for one of them.

“Seeing the confidence of the ladies throughout the games was really nice. It was such a nice way to end the day.”

Some of the benefits of walking netball include, improving hand eye coordination, keeping your bones strong, helping to build up strength in your upper and lower body, lowering your heart rate and blood pressure and improving mobility.