Waikerie Sports Centre is answering the call of kids and adults alike who do not have close access to a range of local sporting competitions.

Residents of Waikerie – a regional town in South Australia with a population of just a few thousand – are often required to travel at least 45 minutes out of town to play competitive sports such as soccer, table tennis and pickleball, often leaving them with less options to stay active.

With the knowledge that the key to a healthy life is to keep moving, Waikerie Sports Centre has stepped up to facilitate a range of social sporting activities, with something on offer for everyone.

From indoor social soccer and table tennis to pickleball, mini ball, Strength for Life and teen gym sessions, Waikerie Sports Centre is making it easy for residents to stay active without leaving town.

Hayley Collins, Venue Manager at Waikerie Sports Centre is passionate about the social sports initiative.

“We know that physical inactivity is the second largest risk factor for the burden of disease in Australia, which contributes to a range of physical and mental health issues. Here at Waikerie Sports Centre, we are very aware that providing opportunities that allow for social exercise is an effective way to get more people moving, more often. And that’s what we want for the community of Waikerie.”

Collins continued, “The impact of Waikerie Sports Centre goes beyond just fitness; it’s about creating a sense of community and connection through shared activities.

“In particular, the indoor social soccer for kids on Monday afternoons has been a popular way for kids to hone their skills, whilst keeping off screens and getting plenty of exercise.”

Parents are noticing the benefits too. Maddie Leske, mother of Isla, 7 and Alfie, 5 is thrilled that an indoor social soccer program is available for her children.

“The soccer program has all the children engaged, eager and excited to have a run around, while doing it in a fun and encouraging environment. My children are loving the weekly Monday afternoon soccer program, and I have my son coming home asking, “Mum I learnt how to stop the soccer ball today, can we practice?” It’s really sparked an interest!”

Leske continued, “This initiative is fantastic and we are so thankful we have this opportunity in a small town”.

Here’s what’s on offer:

• Strength For Life session – Monday 10.30am 
• Indoor Soccer (kids) – Monday afternoons Term 2 & 3 from 3.45pm (1st group) & 4.30 (2nd group) 
• Table Tennis Competition – Monday nights from 6pm – 2x comps each year 
• Social Table Tennis – Tuesday mornings 9.30am 
• Indoor social soccer (adults) – Tuesdays 6-8pm 
• Teen Gym – Wednesdays 4-5pm 
• Strength For Life session – Thursday 9.30am 
• Social Pickleball – Thursday 3.30-5pm 
• Term 4 only – Mini Ball (ages 7-9) Mondays 4.30pm 

Whether you’re looking to get active, make friends, or just have some fun, Waikerie Sports Centre has something for kids and adults alike, where it’s all about making healthy living easy and enjoyable for the whole community.

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