The Taranaki Masters football tournament is the perfect way to kick off the season.

Football is one of the first sports on the calendar for the Taranaki Masters Games, with the tournament on Saturday 9 March at Merrilands Domain football grounds in New Plymouth.

With age groups set at 35+ for 11-a-side and 45+ for five-a-side tournament, there are plenty of options for those wanting a run around.

Peringa Football Club president Steve Alderdice has played in plenty of masters tournaments and is looking forward to another big day this year.

“It’s often a good mix of players that have been playing together for a long time” he said.  “It’s a really good event to get the clubs together and perfect timing for a pre-season run around.”

With a diverse mix of players involved, it’s a great place for players to rub shoulders with those from across the grades and helps more social players develop their football too.

“It’s an inclusive event for all abilities but with some really good talent spread around,” he said.

The five-aside competition is perfect for players who may have lost a yard or two of speed, but still have plenty to offer.

“It becomes a skill-based game and evens the playing field – its about the team and how they play together not so much about who can sprint around the fastest.”

While the action on the field is limited to the over 35s, it’s a great chance for the whole family to get involved, with supporters able to come and go easily and get up close to the action.

“Get the family down and come and have a few laughs as Dad tries to score a wonder goal” he said.

• For event information and entry see: https://www.sporttaranaki.org.nz/get-active-kia-kore/find-an-event/tet-taranaki-masters-games-2024

Article added: Tuesday 20 February 2024