Success Stories
Success Stories
When five work colleagues decided to escape their desk jobs and try something new in early 2024, they had no idea they were about to discover their passion. Mark, Sarah, James, Lisa, and David signed up for RISC’s Monday night indoor soccer league as complete beginners—some hadn’t kicked a ball since school.
“We were honestly terrible in our first few games,” laughs Mark, the team’s self-appointed captain. “But the atmosphere at RISC made it okay to be beginners. The referees were encouraging, other teams were supportive, and the staff always made us feel welcome.”
What started as a weekly social activity quickly became something more. By season’s end, Phoenix FC had transformed from last place to division champions. More importantly, they’d built friendships that extended far beyond the courts.
“RISC gave us more than fitness,” says Sarah. “It gave us a community. We’re already signed up for the next season, and we’re bringing two more teams from our workplace.”
Serving Up Friendships: The Sandstorm Squad’s Beach Volleyball Journey
Sisters Mia and Zoe moved to Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs in early 2024, looking for a way to stay active and make new friends. They joined RISC’s Wednesday night beach volleyball league, drawn in by the relaxed, social atmosphere.
“We honestly just wanted to try something new and meet people,” says Mia. “Neither of us had played much volleyball before, but the staff at RISC made us feel right at home. They explained the rules, introduced us to other players, and even encouraged us to form a team with two regulars who were looking for partners.”
Dubbed the “Sandstorm Squad,” the team started out with a few friendly losses, but soon found their rhythm thanks to the supportive environment. Weekly matches became the highlight of their schedules, and the group soon expanded as more friends and colleagues joined in.
By the end of the season, Sandstorm Squad had not only improved their game but also become community leaders, helping organize extra practice sessions and encouraging new players to join.
“RISC isn’t just a sports centre—it’s where we found our Melbourne family,” says Mia. “We recommend it to everyone we meet, whether they’re looking for fitness, fun, or just a place to belong.”
Lifelong Mates, Lifelong Players: George & Brendon’s RISC Journey
George and Brendon have been part of the Ringwood Indoor Sports Centre family since the doors first opened in 1986. What started as a friendly rivalry on the indoor cricket courts quickly turned into a decades-long tradition of sports, laughter, and community.
For years, Monday nights meant cricket—competing in leagues, sharing stories after matches, and building friendships that lasted well beyond the boundary line. As the years passed, George and Brendon’s passion for sport never faded. In 2017, looking for a new challenge and a way to stay active, they made the switch to beach volleyball. Every Monday, rain or shine, you’ll find them on the sand courts, playing as a dedicated pair and bringing the same energy and camaraderie that made them legends on the cricket pitch.
Recently, the duo decided to try something new again, joining RISC’s Thursday night darts team. True to form, they’ve thrown themselves into the game—enjoying the friendly competition, the welcoming atmosphere, and the chance to connect with both new and familiar faces at the centre.
“RISC has always been our second home,” says George. “It’s not just about the sport—it’s about the people, the laughs, and the memories we’ve made along the way.”
For nearly four decades, George and Brendon have shown what it means to be part of the RISC community: staying active, embracing new challenges, and making lifelong friends.
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