There are many simple steps that people can take to prevent risky alcohol use and drunkenness. While each sporting club is different, below are some ideas for what sporting clubs and members of the community can do to take action.
What can Sporting Clubs do?
- Promote the availability of free water to club members, and make sure it is readily available.
- Substitute alcohol prizes for ‘Player of the Match’ etc with other goods such as vouchers for sporting goods of petrol.
- Implement a ‘Code of Conduct’ for how club members are expected to behave in regards to alcohol at events held at the sporting club.
- Avoid discounted liquor promotions (e.g. buy-one-get-one-free).
- Prohibit the sale of shooters and cocktails.
- Conduct identification checks in the licensed area to ensure patrons are 18 years or over.
- Make soft drinks and low strength alcoholic beverages significantly less in price as compared to full strength alcoholic beverages.
- Ensure that substantial food is made available to patrons. Foods that are high in salt are likely to increase alcohol consumption.
- Eliminate alcohol availability and promotion at events for juniors (18 years and under) and or where juniors constitute the majority of the participants/crowd.
What can Individuals do?
- If you have concerns about the drinking culture at your club, write a letter to your Sporting Club President and suggest measures for action.
- Organise transport for yourself and friends for functions or events where there will be alcohol supplied or served.
- Be responsible for water and rehydration for friends and family if consuming alcohol.
- Encourage sponsorship with messages such as ‘Alcohol Think Again’.
Benefits
There are many benefits for sporting clubs that aim to reduce risky alcohol use including less alcohol-related problems for club members and associates now and in the future and healthier club members. Some include:
- Reducing problems resulting from risky alcohol consumption will have positive impacts for members of sporting clubs. For example, decreased aggression between club members and decreased injury caused by drink driving.
- A safer and more social atmosphere, which leads to a greater retention of players, members and their partners, and greater participation of families in the club.
- Maintenance of club revenue through membership and game attendance.
- Player performance not being affected by the physical, social, emotional and financial problems that can arise from the risky use of alcohol.
- Setting a positive example for junior players.
- Gaining a more positive image with the community, influencing membership and attendance at games and improved relationships between clubs and other community organisations.
Key Supporting Organisations/Networks