Peter Jackson VFL clubs have joined together to sign an AFL Victoria Alcohol Charter to encourage responsible consumption of alcohol across the competition.
The aim of the AFL Victoria Alcohol Charter is to develop a consistent framework for clubs to use to help minimise the harm from alcohol through education and awareness programs encouraging responsible consumption.
Developed in conjunction with VicHealth, AFL Victoria General Manager Grant Williams says the Charter highlights the role football plays in providing leadership regarding this important social issue.
“Many VFL clubs are already engaged in initiatives aimed at encouraging the appropriate consumption and serving of alcohol, so the AFL Victoria Alcohol Charter will help facilitate a consistent approach across all clubs as we collectively strive to provide a safe, secure and family friendly atmosphere at VFL matches.
“The Charter’s framework provides flexibility for clubs to develop relevant strategies to address their own issues and highlights the key areas relating to alcohol that need to be addressed at all levels such as policy, training, improvement and awareness,” Williams said.
“The AFL Victoria Alcohol Charter and our strategies regarding alcohol are not focussed on the removal of alcohol, but the responsible approach to serving and consumption of alcohol.
“The Charter compliments the significant work already being done to promote responsible alcohol consumption throughout the community and elite levels of the game.”
AFL Victoria Cultural Strategy Manager John Strachan said the Charter – also signed by all metropolitan community leagues and the majority of country commissions - ensures that alcohol education is on the agenda at VFL clubs.
“Most VFL clubs are already part of programs such as the Good Sports Program which reflects a responsible attitude towards alcohol, with the aim to provide a safe environment for players, families and supporters.
“The harm from alcohol related incidents in the community can be helped by VFL clubs demonstrating leadership in how to deal with alcohol responsibly,” Strachan said.
Program partner VicHealth strongly supports this initiative at all levels of football.
“Having a drink at the footy is fine, but poor boozy behaviour has no place in a family sport,” VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said.
“Unfortunately, alcohol consumption can get out of hand and incidents occur, which means it no fun for anyone. So, it is important AFL Victoria has created this Charter to proactively address these issues.
“We are pleased to work together with AFL Victoria to promote responsible alcohol-use on and off the footy field, so we can focus on celebrating everything that makes this sport so great.”
Last Modified on 08/08/2014 09:32