THE Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Good Sports team has announced Frankston Rovers Junior Football Club as the recipient of two Good Sports Awards, recognising its strong commitment to promoting positive health and wellbeing, including preventing and reducing harms from alcohol and other drugs.
The Rovers were announced runner-up for the Good Sports Victorian Club of the Year Award, for going above and beyond the requirements of the highest level of the Good Sports program.
Club treasurer, Mark Longley, has been announced as the Good Sports Victorian Volunteer of the Year, for his efforts in building and maintaining a strong family-friendly club environment.
As a gold level Good Sports club, the Rovers have policies that cover alcohol and tobacco management, illegal drugs, mental health, safe transport, and supporting junior members.
Social media manager, Tash Degrassi, said the club joined the Good Sports program to create a safer, healthier, and more inclusive culture for members and families.
“We wanted to grow on positive healthy behaviours and provide a positive role-modelling environment for our juniors. The Good Sports program gave us the tools, resources, and confidence to create clear policies around alcohol management, child safety, and wellbeing. It has helped us embed our club values of integrity, inclusivity community, and fun, to help make our club a safe, family-friendly space for everyone,” Degrassi said.
“We’ve created a culture that supports families through safe transport options, education around healthy lifestyle choices and alcohol-free events. At adult functions, alcohol service is limited, with safe transport options and responsible service standards in place.
“We are more than just a football club, we are a community hub where children and families feel welcome, supported, and safe. We provide affordable sport, social connection, and a sense of belonging. The club promotes strong community values through programs focused on wellbeing, respect, and inclusion,” said Degrassi.
Tash said that the club was very excited that the club’s treasurer and tireless volunteer, Mark Longley, was being recognised as the Good Sports Victorian Volunteer of the Year.
“Mark truly represents the spirit of the Rovers, and goes above and beyond every single week to keep the club running smoothly. From being the first to arrive at the club, to managing the canteen, to time keeping, and cleaning up after all events, Mark’s dedication reflects the very best of our club values,” said Degrassi.
“Mark’s calm leadership has helped de-escalate issues and guide others through respectful education. He role models safe and responsible behaviour, which supports the committee in promoting Good Sports principles. Thanks to volunteers like Mark, our club not only thrives but remains a safe, supportive, and family-focused environment for all.”
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Victoria Manager, Skye Mackay, applauded the Good Sports Awards finalists, saying they should all be incredibly proud of their achievements.
“The Good Sports Awards give winning clubs and volunteers the recognition they deserve. Their commitment to building healthy and family-friendly environments is truly inspiring,” Mackay said.
For more than 25 years, Good Sports has been helping to build a healthier sporting nation, working with community sports clubs to prevent and reduce alcohol-related harm such as drink driving and address issues around tobacco, vaping, illicit drugs, and mental health.
“The program is proven to reduce risky drinking and alcohol-related harms, while increasing club members’ knowledge and confidence in addressing mental health and illicit drug issues,” said Mackay.
“Local sports clubs can sometimes be places where alcohol and drug-related harms occur, but Good Sports proves they can also be a powerful force for positive change, shaping healthier behaviours and stronger communities.”
More than 12, 000 local sports clubs across Australia are part of the Good Sports program, including more than 3,000 clubs in Victoria. In Victoria, Good Sports is funded by the Australian Government.
For more information about Good Sports and the Good Sports Awards visit: goodsports.com.au.