East Campbelltown Eagles Rugby League Football Club is a finalist in the 2014 Good Sports Club Award.
The Good Sports Awards recognise community clubs and people who show leadership in encouraging healthy behaviours to tackle alcohol, obesity and mental health issues through sport.
The Eagles won the 2014 Sydney Shield rugby league competition in their first year.
The Australian Drug Foundation’s pioneering Good Sports program works with more than 6,500 clubs nationwide to help them develop healthier and safer environments for their members, and create a healthier future for the great Australian sports club scene.
Good Sports NSW manager, Nikki Woolley, said the club is building a bright future for sports lovers in the area.
“East Campbelltown Eagles Rugby League Football Club have gone above and beyond in promoting healthy attitudes towards responsible alcohol consumption.
“This recognition and $500 prize money is well-deserved – the club sets an example that the whole community can, and should, be proud of,” Ms Woolley said.
“Sport has the power to inspire, bring people together and help achieve dreams. We want to reward the people and clubs, such as East Campbelltown Eagles Rugby League Football Club, whose dream it is to see a healthier future for their communities.”
East Campbelltown Eagles Rugby League Football Club has taken a number of steps to ensure the club has a healthier relationship with alcohol and gives more back to the community.
There are strict guidelines regarding consumption of alcohol and a club official remains with players at after-match functions to keep them safe and monitor drinking behaviour.
The club has a good rapport with the local pub, whose staff have noticed a vast improvement in players’ behaviour. The pub offers a courtesy bus for players and club officials make sure players have a safe lift home.
The club also made a video commercial to raise awareness of domestic violence and players have given talks in local schools about the issue.
Club president Glen Harding said everyone involved was delighted that their hard work had been recognised as part of the 2014 Good Sports Awards.
“Our club is a leader in the community and we are proud that our guys are part of the Good Sports program,” said Mr Harding.
“Our players are role models for young men, so providing positive examples will make our club and our community a better place.”
