Riverina Good Sports clubs make health a priority

Members’ welfare comes first for the Culcairn Lions 

At Culcairn Lions Football Netball Club, Serena Kent serves as the Welfare Officer, assisting players who struggle to remain engaged and socially connected.

“After two years of COVID we wanted to embed a health culture at the club and one way to formalise this was by appointing a Welfare Officer.”

“I’m passionate about linking those in need with support services,” said Serena.

“Last year we focused on social activities to get people back to the club and we’re now bringing back our mentoring program.”

Serena praises Good Sports for providing a framework to work through issues like responsible service of alcohol and safe transport in a thorough way. She says this makes it easier for volunteers who all have day jobs as well. 

The club offers non-alcohol drinks and no longer promotes alcohol at functions. It also provides bus transport after social events.

Collingullie Glenfield Park FNC supporting mental health

The same thinking is behind Collingullie Glenfield Park Football Netball Club’s approach to health and wellness. 

Nerida Cook, the Club’s Past Treasurer and a Life Member, says that the club facilitates workshops on mental health and suicide awareness for members who can also participate in CPR training.

Nerida describes the club as ‘one big family’ and says it’s important to keep young and old generations together.

“We’ve got past players still involved and now their kids are coming up in the Baby Dees. Our women’s football has become a massive part of life at the club and has had a positive effect on our culture.”

The club offers alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks at games and has a ‘get home safe’ plan in place. Its history of no alcohol or drug related incidences has been attributed to its family friendly environment, which helped secure sponsorship from Wellways, an organisation that provides counselling to players.