“I congratulate the Aquinas Club for being the first sporting club in the Sutherland Shire to achieve the highest distinction attainable under the national Good Sports program,” Mr Annesley said. “Only two other clubs in Sydney have managed to achieve the Level 3 award, which is a reflection of the Aquinas’ commitment to managing alcohol responsibly and providing healthy food and drink options.”

The Good Sports program is an initiative of the Australian Drug Foundation with the free community program aiming to implement structural change within sporting clubs to help reduce the incidence of alcohol related problems. “The Aquinas and Holy Family Colts Junior Rugby League Club have been working to achieve the highest accreditation over the past two seasons,” Mr Annesley said. “The Club is to be commended for its leadership in the local community and providing a safe and healthy environment for local junior footballers and their families. “Sporting clubs are often the focal point of local communities and the Good Sports program is designed to assist sporting clubs promote a positive image for both their sport and its members. “I would encourage all sporting clubs to investigate the benefits of the Good Sports program and take advantage of the professional assistance that is available through this important program,” Mr Annesley said. [view article]