Man vs Fat program kicks goals for weight loss

A global program encouraging men to get out and exercise in a social setting is returning to Bunbury for a second year, with a new coordinator, but the same goal.

Julian Vassay’s relationship with the Man vs Fat program began when the program, which began in the United Kingdom, arrived in Perth.

Having spent a lifetime in soccer, a chance to lose some weight with like-minded people by playing the sport he loved was enough for Mr Vassay to drive to Perth once a week to play with mates.

“I lost 12 kilos in 14 weeks, my other two mates lost 16 kilos in 14 weeks, and there were others who lost more,” he said.

Mr Vassay this year will coordinate the program’s second Bunbury-based edition.

“The program is essentially a cross between WeightWatchers and playing soccer,” he said.

“You get weighed before your game and if you’ve lost weight you score goals before you’ve kicked a ball and if you’ve put weight on you score your own goals.

“The great thing about it for me is the camaraderie between the team, you are all there for the same reason and no one is judging you.

“It is one thing to let yourself down, but when you have got 10 mates relying on you as well, you don’t want to let them down.”

The 2021 season was set to be begin on February 1, but has been delayed due to the latest COVID-19 lockdowns.

Games take place weekly at the Hay Park Sports Pavilion.