Start as a Club Player, End Up on the World Stage
Read the inspiring story of how Queensland player Mary McMahon turned a moment of inspiration into a journey to the international croquet stage.
Retirement is the beginning of a new chapter you get to write yourself.
It’s the chance to finally pursue passions, build new friendships, and create a life that’s remains active and full of purpose.
While many people wait until after their last day of work to discover what this new chapter holds, savvy planners get a head start.
They think about their ideal retirement before it begins, ensuring a seamless and joyful transition.
That’s exactly the path Beryl, a long-time Southport Croquet Club member, chose. Years before she was due to retire, she began to think about what would make her happy and keep her engaged.
With a family connection to the sport after her mother had played, croquet was of interest to Beryl. The challenge was how to begin while still working full-time. Beryl’s solution was to seek out a version of the sport that fit her schedule.
“The only code that I could play at that stage was gateball because they played it Tuesday afternoons and Saturday afternoons,” she explains.
This was a deliberate and exciting first step. By finding a way to play, she was actively building the foundations of her future social life. When her retirement day arrived, she stepped into a world where she already belonged, with a passion already growing.
Croquet was far more than just a pleasant pastime. It is a sport that unlocked a new source of mental challenge and social community for Beryl.
This mental stimulation was matched by a powerful sense of belonging. Her plan to find a hobby quickly blossomed as she discovered the different possibilities for enjoyment with croquet.
Croquet is important because it gives players more benefits than just playing; it helps build lasting friendships.
The result of that forward-thinking approaching retirement? Nearly two decades later, Beryl’s life is enriched by croquet. Her pre-retirement plan opened doors to national and international travel for croquet competitions and gave her a place to contribute her skills, mentoring new players and helping run the club.
Beryl’s story shows us a thriving retirement can start early. You will find a community that’s waiting for you and croquet will challenge and engage you for years to come. By starting croquet before she retired, Beryl didn’t just find a new sport. She planned for her retirement.
Are you planning your next chapter after retirement? Discover a sport and a community you can enjoy for decades. Find a croquet club near you and arrange a visit today.
[Link to CAQ come and try croquet website]
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