Mission-On gets kids to play ball

A new game called ‘Upball’ was launched nationwide yesterday to get children who watch more than two hours of television a day more physically active.

Upball is part of Mission-On, which is a package of initiatives aimed at improving the lifestyles of young New Zealanders by improving their nutrition and getting them more involved in physical activity.

“We have designed Upball for primary-age children who have become glued to the television. The more kids watch a screen the more inactive they become and the more likely they are to eat fatty and sugary foods,” says Mission-On spokesperson Deb Hurdle.

Upball is a ball game which you play with a beach ball or similar. The goal is to keep the ball from touching the ground. Players can use any part of their body.

SPARC is the lead agency for this Mission-On initiative, and is working with Regional Sports Trusts and a number of decile one schools to distribute about half of the Upballs and complimentary game books to children.

The remaining Upballs are available free of charge by calling 0800 UPBALL. Upball is being promoted through a television and radio campaign throughout April and May.