Media release
From the Minister for Respect Agenda
Saturday, 17 July, 2010
CLUB RESPECT MAKING GOOD SPORTS IN SOUTH BARWON
The Brumby Labor Government today announced funding of $50,000 for Club Respect, a joint pilot project with the South Barwon Football and Netball Club and Leisure Networks to boost the leadership potential of young sporting club members throughout the region.
Joining a celebration of past players and Member for Geelong West Michael Crutchfield, Minister for Respect Agenda Justin Madden said Club Respect would champion leadership qualities and discuss social issues affecting communities today.
“Our Government is committed working with community organisations on great partnership projects like Club Respect which promote positive, respectful behaviours,” Mr Madden said.
“Club Respect will build on South Barwon’s Leadership Program by expanding it to four other sporting clubs, with a focus on two winter and two summer sports.
“Through a series of workshops participants will promote respect for women and community volunteering and look at issues such as discrimination, drug and alcohol abuse and mental health.
“This message will then be carried out into the community as participants apply the knowledge and skills they’ve learned in their day-to-day lives and interaction with others.”
Mr Crutchfield said sporting clubs made a valuable contribution to their communities and were an ideal partner for Respect Agenda projects.
“Sporting clubs not only benefit the immediate participants, they also a link into other community groups such as local schools and not-for-profit organisations,” he said.
“Through this expanded network, Club Respect will help deliver our messages about respect for yourself, respect for others and respect for your community to up to 1000 young people aged between 14 and 18.”
Mr Madden said the Brumby Labor Government’s Respect Agenda focused on promoting positive behaviours by fostering a greater understanding of difference and diversity, helping parents and carers, and encouraging people to get involved in their communities though activities like volunteering.
“It also looks at issues underpinning disrespectful behaviours, such as alcohol-related violence, bullying including cyber-bullying and violence against women,” Mr Madden said.
“We are taking a leadership position of respect in Victoria, but we recognise that our Government cannot do it alone.
“That is why we will continue to work with organisations and communities to build respect across every section of our community.”
Mr Madden was joined at the announcement by Richard Holz, President of the South Barwon Football and Netball Club, Rob McHenry CEO of Leisure Networks, and past and present club members.
Last Modified on 19/05/2011 01:02