Margot Capuano, 80, dons her netball bib and steps onto the court at Knox Regional Netball Centre.
The oldest player in the Mountain District Netball Association turns up each Wednesday morning for a social game of walking netball.
She had given up netball at age 64 but has been able to resume the sport she loves thanks to a modified version of the game where players walk instead of run.
"One of the worst things about ageing was I missed my netball so much because I loved it and I did play it for many decades," Margot says. "I saw a 'walking netball' sign and I was absolutely over-the-moon excited and thought, I'm going to try this - just to be back on the court would be beautiful."
She plays alongside her daughter-in-law Sherri, like many family members who play socially or in the Tuesday night competition.
Margot says the game has expanded her social circle and improved her strength and fitness.
"When I started playing, I was able to do the walking fairly well but I found that I'd lost strength in my arms," she says. "I could barely throw the ball and I got such a shock. So, I got out a few things at home and did some more exercise to try and strengthen my arms. That's helped over time. I would absolutely encourage others to do it if you've got any pang of how much you miss netball.
"One absolutely amazing thing is the support. I was pretty nervous when I came. I thought, I'm so old and I look so weak, they'll think I'm very funny. But they are just 100% supportive and kind and thoughtful. If anyone feels nervous or sensitive about not being good enough, it's a beautiful group of people."
Walking netball coordinator Emma Griffiths says the game is growing rapidly in popularity, attracting players of all ages.
"We've got a few teams where we've got younger girls who play with their mums and they field a team with half daughters, half mums - it's really nice to see," she says. "Some of our teams have grandmas and their granddaughters playing.
"It isn't just about the netball, it's about the community and bringing the older generation back. It's getting them out of the house and getting their legs moving and heart pumping."
Each week up to 6,000 players use the centre, which recently underwent a $15.6 million expansion to meet demand for the highest participation sport for females in Knox. The upgrade, allowing more games and training sessions to be held without being impacted by weather, was delivered by Council in partnership with the Victorian and Australian governments.
Knox Regional Netball Centre, 9 Dempster Street, Ferntree Gully, is the leading netball centre in Knox. Find out more: mdnanetball.com.au
