Walkaroos National Team Selection Criteria

Version 1.0 – September 2024
Applies to all international squads representing Walking Football Australia (WFA)

1. Eligibility

  • Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

  • Must be a registered member of Walking Football Australia.

  • Must meet the age bracket requirements of the tournament (e.g. 50+, 60+, 65+, 70+ etc.).

  • Must be available for the full duration of the international tournament and key training camps prior.

2. Core Selection Criteria

Selections will be based on a combination of the following:

A. Skill & Game Understanding

  • Consistent technical ability suited to walking football (passing, movement, control).

  • Understanding of game tactics and positional play.

  • Ability to contribute both in attack and defence.

  • Adherence to the walking rules at all times.

B. Fitness & Mobility

  • Demonstrated level of walking football fitness appropriate to age group.

  • Stamina to play full games or contribute as a reliable substitute.

  • Demonstrated injury management and recovery.

C. Team Role & Balance

  • Ability to fill a required role in the team (e.g. defender, creative midfielder, finisher, keeper).

  • Flexibility to adapt to multiple positions, where possible.

  • How a player complements the wider team structure.

D. Coachability & Attitude

  • Demonstrates a positive, respectful attitude towards teammates, opponents, officials and coaches.

  • Takes on coaching feedback constructively.

  • Supports team cohesion, morale and inclusive values.

E. Commitment & Availability

  • Attendance at trials, training camps, and development days.

  • Willingness and ability to travel for international representation.

  • Timely communication and reliability in responding to team matters.

3. Additional Considerations

  • Previous experience in international or state-level walking football (not essential).

  • Off-field contribution to the Walkaroos culture and values.

  • Diversity and inclusion (ensuring all backgrounds and regions are represented fairly).

4. Selection Process

  1. Registration for Trials – Players must register via official form.

  2. Trials and Assessment – Observed by independent selectors and coaching staff.

  3. Shortlist – Based on performance, availability, and squad balance.

  4. Panel Review – Final selections made by the Selection Panel (selectors, head coach, team manager).

  5. Notification – Selected and non-selected players will be informed respectfully.

5. Appeals

Players may request feedback or lodge an appeal in writing within 7 days of notification.