It may be a relatively new role for well-known local Kristy Torney this season, but being manager of the Kyneton FIDA team is already proving a positive, with plenty of fun and enjoyment on and off the field.
Kristy has a lengthy background in sport as a player and volunteer, and Kyneton Football Netball Club was pleased to see her put her hand up to manage the 2025 FIDA team.
Kyneton, Bendigo, Rupertswood and Sunbury are the four teams in this season’s all-abilities football competition, with the first round played at Kyneton at the weekend.
FIDA is a charitable organisation (Football Integration Development Association) that promotes fitness, friendship, belonging and developing life skills and improved health among participants who have additional needs.
“The smiles on the faces of our players says it all, with the Kyneton club being very supportive of FIDA and the benefits it brings,” Kristy explained. “We are looking pretty strong this year with some new recruits and winning the ‘Lightning Cup’ against Rupertswood, was a great start to our season.”
Experienced FIDA coach Peter Connor is at the helm, and most of the 21 players come from Kyneton and district.
The FIDA season is relatively short, with a total of eight games, and some of the players are new to the Kyneton club, with the majority having played last season.
“They clearly enjoy their football, and they love the encouragement from our supporters and the club.”
Kristy, a long-time local, has been brought up in the local sporting community and continued her involvement in various clubs over the years with her own children and their sporting pursuits, developing long-term friendships.
NETBALL COMEBACK
Kristy has also made a netball comeback with Kyneton “for fun and social reasons” this season.
The versatile player enjoyed the April 5 D-grade game against the Gisborne Giants, despite not coming home with the win.
“We’re a bunch of friends on and off the court, hoping to win a few games, but more importantly enjoy the social aspects that the game brings” Kristy says.
There’s no doubt FIDA is her number one priority with the club this season.
Training sessions are between 5pm and 6pm each Wednesday at the Showgrounds.
“Like other clubs, Kyneton is always pleased to find some more volunteers… if you’ve got some time, come along and show your support and see just how rewarding FIDA football really is,” Kristy said.
