Geelong Junior Marlins Water Polo Club are junior champions

The water polo club was recognised for creating a safe place for juniors to play sport, by focusing on issues like spectator behaviour, nutrition, and having a smoke-free environment.

“We encourage juniors of all abilities, and we prioritise participation and fun over winning. Everyone looks after one another. We are very proud of our small, inclusive, regional community club,” said the club’s President, Bec Talbot.

Hosted by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation at Parliament House, Canberra in February 2023, the Awards ceremony recognised Good Sports clubs and their dedicated volunteers from across the country who are passionate about community, their members and making their club the very best it can be.

Supporting each other

“To encourage positive behaviour, all members are asked to sign a ‘Code of Conduct’ and ‘Think, Act and Play’ policy. This outlines our expectations of all members and their families,” Bec explained.

The water polo club provides information on help and support services for people who may be experiencing mental health issues, or other health issues.

“For anyone in need of help, we assign them a buddy for them to talk to, in a confidential manner,” Bec said.

Additionally, the club prides itself on running activities that increase parental involvement in the club, as well as food sharing events, that help to boost a sense of community in the club.

Helping cut costs for Geelong Junior Marlins members

To help keep costs down for families, the club offers a swap or trade service for uniforms and subsidise costs where required. It also says it practices the reduce, reuse and recycle policy, by handing down uniforms or donating them to a local charity.

“We are so proud to have won this award and love being part of the Good Sports community. The prize money will support our juniors, by helping purchase and upgrade equipment and subsidise uniform costs,” Bec added.