The club’s youngest player, 13-year-old Sone Nwmaalii enjoys the sport. Photo: Supplied.
Griffith Croquet Club is inviting locals to discover the sport during a free come-and-try day at Henderson Oval, Yoogali, from 10 am to noon this Sunday, 21 June.
Club organiser Sue Fordham said membership had grown steadily since the club formed four years ago and members were keen to welcome more players.
“We started with eight members and now have more than 20,” she said.
“We’d love to see more people come along from across the age spectrum.”
The club’s youngest player is 13-year-old Sone Nwmaalii, while its oldest member is 95-year-old Nan Simpson.
To encourage newcomers, the club is also offering free games and coaching throughout July. All equipment is provided, with players only needing to wear suitable flat-soled shoes for the grass courts.
“I’m a coach and so is our member Virginia Tarr, and we’re happy to help anyone learn the game or improve their skills,” Ms Fordham said.
Croquet is played by using a mallet to hit coloured balls through a series of hoops set out on a grass court. Players take turns trying to complete the course while also using strategy to make life difficult for their opponents. The sport is easy to learn but can take years to master.
Virginia Tarr and Sue Fordham receive their Level 1 coaching badges from coaches Kate McLaughlin and Peter Freer. Photo: Supplied.
The club began playing on the greens beside the Griffith Visitors Centre in 2022 before relocating to larger facilities at Henderson Oval in Yoogali.
The venue now features three playing courts and a clubhouse with a canteen. It is also equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AED), funded through the NSW Local Sport Defibrillator Program.
“We generally have 12 people playing at a time, with four players on each court, but we can accommodate more if interest continues to grow,” Ms Fordham said.
A croquet player for the past nine years, she said the sport offered both physical and mental benefits.
“It’s great for your mind because it involves strategy and forward thinking,” she said.
“You’re defending your hoop and planning your next move, so there’s always something to think about.
“We’ve also found people become more flexible and active after playing regularly.”
Nonagenarian Jean Guiton was a foundation club member. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Beyond the game itself, Ms Fordham said the social side of the club was a major drawcard.
“We always stop for a cuppa after the first game,” she said.
“Everyone brings a little something for morning tea and it’s a lovely chance to catch up.”
The free come-and-try session is open to people of all ages and abilities and will be held from 10 am this Sunday at Henderson Oval, Yoogali.
