Perth Football League chief executive Andrew Dawe says he is hopeful this weekend’s “The Real Stakes” round of matches can showcase the positive benefits of grassroots level sport.
Perth Football League chief executive Andrew Dawe says he is hopeful this weekend’s “The Real Stakes” round of matches can showcase the positive benefits of grassroots level sport.
In February, the PFL announced it – alongside the Victorian Amateur Football Association and Adelaide Footy League – would hold the dedicated round in May, in a bid to raise awareness regarding the harm which can stem from online sports gambling.
Presently, national gambling losses annually in Australia are approximately $31.5 billion, which is the highest per capita globally.
A number of current AFL and AFLW players, including West Coast Eagles duo Matt Owies and Emma Swanson, are also ambassadors of the Real Stakes program.
Ahead of the weekend, Mr Dawe said community clubs played an important part in the lives of many people – promoting both physical and mental health benefits.
“The Real Stakes round reflects our commitment to creating healthier club environments where the only stakes that matter are the ones on the field,” Mr Dawe said.
“Our clubs are at the heart of local communities, and we’re proud to use our platform to address an issue affecting so many Western Australian families.”
It’s been a busy few weeks for the PFL and its clubs, which champion several charitable causes and are a part of the largest senior community sporting competition in the state.
Last Friday, a number of clubs – including North Fremantle, North Beach and Kwinana – held matches on ANZAC Day, with dedicated services and events, which resulted in big crowds.
