Ashford Amblers, Ashford’s Walking Netball group, have had a busy summer hosting two events with walking netballers from other parts of Kent. The Amblers, in their distinctive teal t-shirts, have only played in one previous tournament and competing against other teams was an exciting experience.
On August 19th ladies from the Saxon Shore visited for a friendly competition. After introducing them to some warm-up routines some friendly matches were played. A gentle shower half way through the games was a relief to the warm evening and tea and cake was enjoyed at the end.
Just over a week later on the hottest August day on record, the Amblers were host to a mini Walking Netball Tournament. Two teams entered from King's Rochester Walking Netball (which included some ex-England netball players) and one team from Borough Green. With two teams of Amblers it was a tight schedule to fit in all the games. It ended with a three-way tie between Kings 1, Kings 2 and Ashford Reds with a score of 9 points each.
Ashford Amblers and Ashford Netball League would like to thank all the teams, spectators and officials that have taken the time to make these tournaments possible. They are great fun and the Amblers are looking forward to more tournaments in the future, and will look at putting together both competitive and non-competitive teams.
Terrie Ireland, who was at Courtside for the second tournament said "As a spectator, playing traditional netball on another court it was lovely to see so many people coming together, still enjoying the sport they love. I can only hope that when I can no longer run playing netball, that there will be as many passionate women also still playing this version of the game!"
Walking netball is held at Courtside, Stanhope Road on Wednesday evenings from 7pm until 8.30pm. As well as an ideal sport for older women, it is also ideal for those returning to netball from injury. All are welcome to turn up and play.
