Melbourne City FC are calling on all Victorian families and schools to join VicHealth’s Walk to School program this October.
Melbourne City FC goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen helped announce the Club as the Official Community Partner for this year’s Walk to School campaign in a video released this morning.
The Walk to School program is a free, easy and fun way for kids to get active every day, something Melbourne City FC is passionate about.
VicHealth CEO, Jerril Rechter, thanked the club for its support, saying the campaign’s association with Melbourne City FC would inspire primary school children across the state to become involved and get active.
“Unfortunately, only one in five Victorian primary school children get the 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity they need every day. Walk to School helps children get active, build healthy habits for life, develop their social skills and learn about road safety,” Ms Rechter said.
“Regular physical activity is important for everyone. The health benefits to children go beyond physical health. Kids can open up more when they are walking, they learn to cope with the stresses of life, to make decisions, explore and most importantly, have fun. For adults, physical activity also contributes to reducing depression, stress and anxiety. Walking to school together is also a great way for busy parents to spend quality time with their kids.”
Melbourne City FC CEO, Scott Munn, Assistant Coach Michael Valkanis and goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen will be taking on the challenge to walk to and from school with their children during October.
“Melbourne City FC is excited to be the Official Community Partner for this year’s campaign,” Mr Munn said.
“We encourage all Victorian primary school kids and their families to step up to the challenge. Sign up through your school, or if your school isn’t participating, register on the Walk to School website to be part of the action.”
Registrations are now open for Walk to School 2016 at www.walktoschool.vic.gov.au. Participating schools will be provided with certificates to celebrate students’ achievements and will be in the running for regional prizes including a full-day football clinic for the whole school, run by Melbourne City FC.
