Campaign calls for return to sport

COVID-19 hit regional community sports hard, and a local not-for-profit is urging young Victorians to get back into the clubs and recreation groups they’ve missed out on.

Sports Central is based in the Central Highlands, and provides a range of programs and services related to club development, inclusive sport, participation, and healthy and safe communities.

It’s that third point – participation – that the organisation is now focusing on in collaboration with Regional Sport Victoria (RSV), with a new campaign called ‘Stride into Sport’.

Amongst children and youth in Victoria (aged 4 – 19 years), there was a loss of 175,708 participants in 2020 compared to 2019. Sports Central and RSV are eager to reverse that trend, and enhance the social connection and community aspect of summer sports.

Sports Central Executive Officer, Michael Flynn, said the organisation was working hand-in-hand with sports clubs to get more juniors involved.

“Young people have been heavily impacted with the lack of continuity with their sports over last few years. Junior sport is an essential part to so many of our clubs and associations. Strong junior programs and family involvement leads to more vibrant community sport,” he said.

“Sports Central is working closely with our local clubs and associations to support new and engaging participation opportunities for young people.”

RSV General Manager, Meghan Mayman, said the campaign would show the variety of reasons for young people to get active over summer.

“Juniors are so important to the growth of our community sports. Over the next few weeks, we want to showcase the benefits of being part of a sporting club,” Ms Mayman said.

“Stride into Sport provides a spotlight on the registration period for community sport and recreation clubs across regional Victoria. Let’s inspire as many kids as possible to make the next strides into sport.”

For more information on the Strike into Sport campaign, visit www.regionalsportvictoria.org.au/stride-into-sport/.