Coffs Coast women to represent Australia in walking football’s World Nations Cup

COFFS Coast footballers Kylie Pratt, Dorothy Ayers, and former local and ex-Wallaroo Danielle Meskell, have been selected to represent Australia in the Women’s Over 40 Foreveroos National Walking Football team to contest this month’s FIWFA World Nations Cup in Spain.

Their selection came after a rigorous nationwide trials process, where they impressed selectors with their skill, fitness, and determination.

They’ll now proudly wear the green and gold as Australia takes on the world in Spain.

Kylie and Dorothy explained that, “unlike many national sporting codes, Walking Football receives no government or Football Australia funding, and they have had to rely heavily on our own resources to attend regular training camps in Sydney, interstate tournaments, purchase of equipment, international travel, and accommodation costs.

“To bridge the gap, we have worked hard to secure the backing of local businesses and Council grant funding, while our Foreveroos squadmates have done the same in communities across the country.”

Kylie and Dorothy regularly play together in teams in local competitions, including the Northern Storm Women’s over 30’s 11-a-side team, Rogan’s World and Wally’s 6-a-side team and Coffs City Strollers Walking Football.

“Our families and our local teams have encouraged us from the beginning, they understand our dedication and commitment to the sport and have been our No.1 supporters throughout the process,” Kylie said.

“Dot and I have worked hard and feel blessed to have this opportunity to represent our country on the world stage, and as our friends and family know us all too well – we will be bringing back home that medal”.

Dorothy agreed that it represented an “incredibly proud moment”.

“To be able to say that you have represented your country; this has been an amazing opportunity and journey for us.

“From the time we found out that we made the team, we’ve been working hard and training towards this goal.

“Our kids and families have been our main motivation and cheer squad.

“It has also made us realise that you can be your best self at any age, you just have to set your mind to it.

“Walking soccer is something that we can do for the next 20 years and we love that we are part of this new sporting community.”

As they prepare for international competition, Kylie and Dorothy have continued to support efforts at home.

They’ve played a central role in reviving the Coffs City Strollers, ensuring that Walking Football has a strong and growing presence on the Coffs Coast.

Their efforts have encouraged more locals to lace up their boots and experience a game that is as much about connection and fun as it is about competition.

They’ve also contributed to the wider story – including featuring in the making of the team’s official anthem, The Spirit of the Foreveroos, a rousing song that captures the pride and passion of representing Australia on the world stage.

For those not familiar with the sport, Kylie has offered this explanation.

“Walking Football is a fast-growing international sport designed to make football accessible for older adults and those seeking a safe, non-contact way to stay active.”

“The rules are simple: no running, no tackling, no high balls, the result is a game that puts the emphasis on teamwork, fitness, and enjoyment.

“It’s a lot harder and physically demanding than it looks.

“The sport has spread rapidly across Australia through local hubs like Coffs Harbour, and is now internationally recognised.

“Australia is one of the six founding members of the Federation of International Walking Football Associations (FIWFA), which is driving the sport’s growth worldwide.”

As Kylie, Dorothy and Danielle prepare to walk onto the pitches of Torrevieja in their Foreveroos kit, they’ll carry with them the pride of their community, their journey a testament to persistence, passion, and the power of local support.

By Aiden BURGESS