There was all the excitement of a basketball centre court in the loungeroom of Uniting AgeWell Newnham Community Aldersgate Village as members of the Launceston Tornadoes bounced in for a visit recently.

Residents cheered, sports stories were shared, balls flew and prizes were awarded in a question-and-answer session.  There were basketball cupcakes and a piano performance adding to the festivity of the occasion.  The underlying message?  The importance of being strong at any age.

The visit is part of a growing partnership between the Tornadoes and Uniting AgeWell which aims to foster intergenerational connection and celebrate the role of sport in community life.

Players Megan ‘Mo’ Mullings and Keely Froling fielded questions from residents eager to learn more about the elite sportswomen and keen to share their own experiences.

Wayne Attard, a former athlete who ran in the 100, 200 and 400 metre sprints, laughed excitedly as he caught a ball that was lobbed to him.  He was also delighted to win a beanie in the trivia quiz, saying “It’s all such a lot of fun.”

Another resident, Barry Coones, loves all sport.  He has won snooker championships and says, “It takes concentration and skill to be a good snooker player.”

Margaret Brown used to play basketball and still loves watching the game.  Jenny Scott is passionate about netball and lacrosse.  “Back then I preferred lacrosse as I was a really good runner,” she laughs.

Jessie and Albert Redshaw thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon.  Both play lawn bowls.

While music is her great love Glennys Gracie used to also play squash on a regular basis.  Changing the pace of the day, Glennys performed classical pieces to showcase her prowess on the piano.

Residential Services Manager Audette Groenewold says residents maintain their physical fitness, strength and agility by attending exercise classes as well as a variety of options including eight ball, balloon tennis, drum fit, indoor bowls, stretch mobility relaxation, seated gentle exercises – there is even a very popular walking group.

Vice-Chair of the Launceston Tornadoes, Madi Shepherd, says the team values its ongoing relationship with Uniting AgeWell and is looking forward to many more visits like this.

“This partnership is special to us. It’s a chance for our players to connect with a different generation, hear incredible life stories and give back to the community in a meaningful way.