IN these times of inactivity brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic it is important to keep ourselves busy, both mentally and physically.
That is a struggle athletes and sports people face daily and as a result some creative solutions have been produced.
At a national level Australia’s leading soccer bodies – the Socceroos and Matildas – have taken to social media to kickstart the #playathomechallenge and are encouraging players from all reaches of the country to get involved.
The challenge has been backed by several of the leading names in both teams, with players posting videos of themselves completing a skill exercise and challenging people at home to replicate them.
Among those involved so far is former Mount Gambier soccer player and current Matilda Jenna McCormick, who is currently back home in Adelaide after the Tokyo Olympics were postponed until 2021.
She said the movement was a good way for players at home to feel connected with some of their idols during a tough time in sport.
“The social media crew with the Matildas thought it was a great way to keep juniors involved in the game,” McCormick said.
“Obviously they have no trainings to do, like us as well, so maybe they are bored or want to keep up their skills.
“The message behind it is just keeping the youth involved.”
Keeping enthused about training is something McCormick has struggled with herself during this quiet period and she has found similar exercises to be a good way to keep skills sharp while away from the game.
She gave some pointers for soccer players at home facing the challenge of being unable to hit the pitch with their mates during this time.
“Obviously the main one is to try and keep active as best you can,” McCormick said.
“One of the things I know I have had to handle is just that day-in, day-out repetitiveness.
“Sometimes it can get a little bit hard to go out and train by yourself, that is what I’m experiencing at the moment.
“It is just a matter of continuing wanting to improve and just get out there and try and keep a healthy mind.”
