The Good Sports program is helping sporting clubs across Australia to set higher standards off the field. It’s helping tackle key health issues within the local community including alcohol, smoking, obesity and mental health. The program aims to make sports clubs safer, healthier and more family friendly by promoting initiatives including responsible alcohol management.

The Melbourne Rugby Union Football Club (MRUFC), based at Orrong Park, is one of the oldest and most successful rugby clubs in Victoria. Recently it was awarded re-accreditation for Level 3 as part of the Good Sports program for their work as leaders in reducing the link between alcohol and sport.

There are a number of initiatives under way to educate the club’s members and the local community that the club is building on its reputation and becoming even more inclusive and supportive.

Peter McBride, Secretary MRUFC, said that leaders within the club, both on and off the pitch, were helping to promote positive messages and setting new benchmarks. The club is also one of the first sporting clubs in Australia to introduce an Illicit Drug Use Policy in conjunction with the Good Sports Program.

“This year we have implemented what we are calling ‘a new game plan’ at our club. At the heart of this initiative is the health and wellbeing of our five hundred plus members. We want everyone involved with this club to feel connected to a safe, family-orientated environment. This is evident in our growth across the board, but particularly in junior player numbers this season,” McBride said.

Bill Karamtos, Good Sports Victorian Manager, said alcohol is a leading cause of preventable illness and death in Australia, and breaking the link between alcohol and sport has never been more important.

“By joining Good Sports and achieving accreditation, The Melbourne Rugby Union Football Club is showing the community that they care about their players and members,” he said. “Congratulations to the club for leading the way in changing Australia’s binge drinking culture.”