Older adults make great club volunteers if they are made to feel connected and valued. A study by the Australian Sports Commission Active Living and Public Health Institute of Health noted; there are many health benefits of sport participation for older adults, provided it is done in a safe manner to prevent injuries. Many older adults participate in sport for social reasons, and enjoy the opportunity to participate with other family members across generations.

 It should be acknowledged that older adults contribute greatly to sport clubs not only through their participation, but also by increasing the resource capacity of the club through volunteering, and by being role models for younger participants. Therefore there is a great opportunity for targeted policy and strategies to get more older adults active through sport, which would contribute to the overall health of local communities.

Here's some ideas to get you started!

• Have you heard of Lifestyle clubs, Probus groups, U3A's and Neighbourhood houses. They are some great places to start connecting with established older adult groups who may be looking for local physical activity opportunities and use of low cost club facilities.
• Established older adult groups may be looking for a local venue to hold an event or a regular meeting group. eg walking group looking to use club facilities for social connection.
• Have you considered promoting opportunities for older adults modified sports during the club low peak times? 
• Would a local past player be interested in championing a past players modified version of a sport?
• Does your club vision and mission promote inclusion for older adult members?
• Is your club environment accessible?
• Could your sport modified to walking pace?
• ​Have you considered networking with other clubs to get fresh ideas, support and share information on older adult club engagement.

Useful Resources:

http://www.sportandrecreationspatial.com.au/resources/2016%20older%20adults%20worth%20their%20weight.pdf

https://austkd.com.au/uploads/docs/Courses/Active_and_healthy_ageing_through_sport_2015_Final.pdf  Involving Older People Overcoming Barriers to Participation

https://www.clearinghouseforsport.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/776612/Older,_smarter,_fitter-_a_guide_for_providers_of_physical_activity_programs_for_older_Australians.pdf

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-07-01/keeping-seniors-on-the-sports-field/7561618

https://theconversation.com/age-shouldnt-be-a-barrier-to-playing-competitive-sports-99487

https://www.sportingmemoriesnetwork.com/online-clubs