Walking Hockey Bringing People Back to the Game They Love

Published Mon 18 May 2026

In 2025, Hockey Tasmania began delivering Walking Hockey programs across the state, and they have quickly become a favourite for participants looking to stay active, reconnect with the game, and enjoy the social side of sport in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Walking Hockey is a modified version of the game designed to be fun, inclusive, and accessible for people of all ages, abilities, and skill levels. Played on a smaller field with a lighter ball, walking hockey offers a less physically demanding way to enjoy hockey while still staying active and connected.

Walking Hockey is ideal for beginners, players returning from injury or rehabilitation, those looking for a gentler version of the sport, as well as anyone who enjoys the social side of team activities. Along with improving physical activity, it promotes positive mental health, social interaction, injury prevention and rehabilitation, and stronger community engagement.

We asked some of our regular Devonport participants what they enjoyed the most about it.

For Megan, Walking Hockey has been a game changer, offering the chance to play hockey again after the physical demands of regular hockey became too much “It’s enabled me to play the sport I love again,” she says. The flexible, relaxed nature of the sessions keeps her coming back each week. “You can turn up when you can, have a great time, and be around like-minded people enjoying themselves.” Beyond the enjoyment, Megan says it has also helped her stay active and improve her fitness.

Wendy shared a similar story. Having loved hockey since she was 11 years old, Walking Hockey has given her the opportunity to return to the sport. “There are no set teams, you just turn up and play, and every week is different,” she explains. For Wendy, it’s not just about the game itself, but also the friendships and social connection that come afterwards. “It’s improved my fitness, and I really enjoy the social activities after the game.”

For Fred, the people are what make Walking Hockey special. “The camaraderie and the people you meet each week” are his favourite parts of the program. The fun atmosphere and welcoming community are what bring him back week after week. He says the experience has helped him feel healthier and more positive in everyday life.

Mouse agreed that Walking Hockey is all about enjoyment and opportunity. “Being able to play hockey again” is what they loved most, while the sessions themselves are simply “good fun.” Walking Hockey has also created something important to look forward to every week and has had “a positive impact all round.”

Sarah said she loved every part of the walking hockey experience. “All of it, the people, getting outside, thinking you can play proper hockey again,” The supportive social group is what keeps her involved, and she credits Walking Hockey for helping her become fitter and more active in a way that feels enjoyable rather than like exercise.

Walking Hockey is proving that sport doesn’t have to stop with age, injury, or time away from the game. It’s about reconnecting with hockey, staying active, meeting new people, and most importantly, having fun.

So whether you’re returning to the sport after years away or simply looking for a welcoming way to stay active, Walking Hockey offers something for everyone.

Register for your nearest Walking Hockey Program below

Hobart:

Dates: Wednesday 6th May - Wednesday 10th June
Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Venue: Aurora Energy Tasmanian Hockey Centre

Dates: Tuesday 26th May - Tuesday 30 June
Time: 5:00pm-6:00pm
Venue: Aurora Energy Tasmanian Hockey Centre

Register: https://www.hockeytasmania.com.au/events/348404

Launceston

Dates Monday 25 May - Monday 29 June
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Venue: Aurora Energy Northern Hockey Centre
Register: https://www.hockeytasmania.com.au/events/359224