The GOTAFE Goulburn Valley Football League will make a statement against domestic violence with the League’s first White Ribbon round being held over the next two weekends.
The themed round was initiated by club delegates to support White Ribbon Australia in its campaign against domestic violence in our community.
GOTAFE GVFL Chairman David Roff threw his support behind the initiative.
"The Board and clubs wholeheartedly support the ongoing work of White Ribbon Australia and the need for the community to rise against violence against women and ensure our communities are safe places" he said.
"Our clubs are integral hubs of their towns and the support of White Ribbon is about football taking a leadership role in what is an important community issue."
"All footballers and netballers in all grades will be asked to wear white arm bands over the two weekends and club officials will be provided with white ribbons or wristbands to be worn in support."
"All club members and supporters are also encouraged to be part of the change in a practical way by taking The White Ribbon Oath. The Oath is a verbal commitment to stand up and speak out against domestic violence and to prevent men’s violence against women."
"The feature match for the round will be the Mansfield v Shepparton game at Mansfield with a function held pregame featuring a White Ribbon Ambassador as guest speaker amid members of the football, netball and health services communities."
"Also, as a fantastic support to the program, Mansfield are opening their doors with all females provided with free entry on the day."
"The Ambassador will also lead footballers and netballers on the ground in taking The Oath prior to the start of the Senior football game."
White Ribbon Australia’s Felicity Beissmann congratulated the League on their proactivity.
"White Ribbon is the world’s largest movement of men working to end men’s violence against women and girls, promote gender equality, healthy relationships and a new vision of masculinity" she said.
"Through education, awareness raising, creative campaigns, preventative programs and partnerships, White Ribbon provides the tools for men to stop violence against women in their community and beyond."
"The GOTAFE GVFL is a highly credentialed and reputable sporting organisation and the clubs should be congratulated for their initiative in supporting our messages."
"As an organisation we are only too pleased to work with them and thank them for their support."
Last Modified on 02/08/2016 14:00