This is inherent in the philosophy of the Golden Oldies sporting movement so the return of Football (Soccer) to the Festival Family is a welcome development presently underway by the Secretariat and Air New Zealand Holidays.
Golden Oldies Football (Soccer) was introduced in Auckland in 1983. Subsequent events have been held in California (Santa Monica), Surfers Paradise, Brighton, Auckland's North Shore, Hawaii and Melbourne. Fiji was another intended venue in 2000 but the toppling of the government there spelled the end of such plans although a replacement Mini-Festival in Sydney went ahead at short notice.
Golden Oldies is a Kiwi invention more than 26 years of age and involves people of 35 years young. While there may be an age limitation at the lower end there certainly isn't an upper level. The sport involves all ages with fellow sportspeople joining together from all corners of the globe to celebrate.
FIFA Football (Soccer) rules shall apply for the new Golden Oldies Soccer Festival, when announced by the Secretariat, except when superseded by any of the following rules:
- No restriction on replacements
- No slide tackles
- No aggressive play
- Dissent and foul language will not be tolerated
- No charging the Goalkeeper once he or she has hands on the ball
- The duration of games will be determined by the Organising Committee
Above all, this is Golden Oldies Football (Soccer) and the "Fun, Friendship and Fraternity" will be evident at all times.
