NZ's First Sporting Memories Club Turns 1, Fights Loneliness

A group of seniors in Kerikeri, New Zealand, are proving that it's never too late to kick a ball, share a laugh, and find your people.

The town's Sporting Memories Club just celebrated its first anniversary, bringing together 30 to 40 members living with early-stage dementia, depression, or loneliness. Founded by Dementia Tai Tokerau community advisor Philippa Cooper, the club offers something desperately needed: a place to belong without judgment or anxiety.

Cooper noticed people in the early stages of cognitive decline were stuck at home, too anxious to join existing groups. She partnered with Dr. Richard Wright from the AUT Centre for Active Ageing to bring the Sporting Memories model from the UK, where over 150 similar clubs thrive.

Every two weeks, members gather for morning tea (donated by local sponsors) followed by activities like walking football, tai chi, or round-robin challenges. On alternate weeks, they meet for walks around town. Walking sticks, walkers, and even motorized scooters are welcome.

Club captain Chris Sicely, whose wife has dementia and now lives in permanent care, said the games get surprisingly competitive. "I didn't think half of them could still walk, let alone play," he said. "I've come to understand that you can't pigeon-hole people."

The club quickly became essential for caregivers too, who found their own need for connection and joy. Cooper said watching members succeed at activities brings visible happiness. "It just puts a smile on their faces," she said.

Why This Inspires

The stakes are higher than most people realize. Dr. Wright points out that social isolation can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Research shows staying socially connected can reduce the risk of early death by up to 50% and may add seven years to life expectancy.

"It's not just about sport," Wright said. "It's about belonging. It's about identity, laughter, and being seen. These moments fight loneliness. They spark joy. They build whānau."

The club measures success not in attendance numbers but in smiles and moments of genuine connection. Members who once felt invisible now feel seen, those who felt isolated now feel part of something bigger.

A second club in Auckland's Birkenhead just held its first meeting, and Wright hopes communities across New Zealand will follow Kerikeri's lead. The model is simple: gather people, share memories, move together, and let sport be the excuse for what really matters.

In a world that often sidelines seniors, especially those facing cognitive challenges, these clubs offer something revolutionary disguised as simple fun.