Footy program for inclusivity

A PARTNERSHIP between AFL Victoria and Sports Central is aiming to create safe, equal and respectful sporting environments.

The AFL Clubs and Gender Equity Education Program supports sports clubs in creating a community where all involved feel safe and valued, aiming to also increase the participation of women and girls.

It also assists clubs in updating their governance and policies and to develop community-based initiatives to encourage participation.

“We are very pleased to have partnered with AFL Victoria on such an important program,” said Michael Flynn, executive officer of Sports Central.

“We worked with the clubs on understanding what it means to be an inclusive club and began assessing key areas such as governance, marketing and gender equity.”

The program was made up of two workshops and a webinar, and participating organisations included Carngham Linton, Beaufort, Dunolly, Gordon, Sebastopol and Talbot football netball clubs.

Jason Muldoon, AFL goldfields region manager, said creating inclusive clubs is a priority in the region.

“The willingness of clubs to create an environment that is safe, respectful and inclusive for everyone, but especially for females, are a high priority of the region,” he said.

“This important program is designed to create a sustainable women and girls football competition.

“We hope that delivery of this program will open opportunities for female players, coaches and administrators across the AFL goldfields region.”