Walking football debuts in Upper Moutere

When Steve Clark went for a drive in the country with his wife, little did he realise they would end up living in Dovedale and bring fresh football to the region as well.

“We stopped at the café in Upper Moutere, saw a real estate advertisement for house and we bought it,” says Steve, who previously founded Walking Football Nelson.

Born in Dundee, Scotland, Steve loved playing football during his 22-year career in the British Army and brought that passion to Nelson in 2008.

The former warrant officer was a co-coach of Nelson Suburbs for a year and now he is busy recruiting players for his new club which he launched last month at the Moutere Hills Community Centre.

“I was very impressed with the turnout for the first session, 13 blokes and the club is already gaining traction,” declares the Richmond fertilizer company administration manager.

The players are getting together on Thursday nights, from 6pm, and women are welcome too

“Our primary target group is people over 50 but over 40’s can give it a go as well. Walking Football is a slower-paced version of the beautiful game and perfect for those who are looking to stay fit,” enthuses “Clarky”.