Wednesday, 14 November 2012
RIDDELL FC PLAYER WINS 2012 WINGMAN OFF-FIELD CHAMPION AWARD
Riddell Football Club’s Matthew Darby has been named Riddell District Football League’s Wingman Off-Field Champion Player of the Year.
A partnership between the Department of Justice and the AFL Coaches Association (AFLCA), the Wingman Off-field Champion Awards saw clubs nominate players aged between 18 and 25 who promoted and demonstrated positive off-field behaviour at the club.
More than 300 clubs across 16 amateur football leagues, including a women’s league, participated in the award program, which forms part of the Victorian government’s wider Wingman anti-violence campaign.
Department of Justice Regional Director Jodi Henderson congratulated Matthew on his award. “A great Wingman displays leadership, teamwork and is committed to looking out for their mates,” Ms Henderson said. “Matthew’s leadership skills and his willingness to set a positive example both on and off the field make him a deserving recipient of this year’s off-field champion award.
“The Wingman partnership with the AFLCA has been instrumental in spreading the message that you can enjoy yourself, look after your mates, and have a good night out.”
A Wingman commercial featuring AFL coaches played on M.C.G. and Etihad scoreboards before AFL games this season. The AFLCA also ran competitions to win tickets to the AFL Grand Final, along with a range of other prizes.
“With the support of the AFL Coaches Association and the football community, we are encouraging people to look out for their mates – on and off the field – and ensure everybody enjoys themselves and has a good time,” Ms Henderson said.
Off-Field Champion Matthew Darby said he was proud to represent and promote the Wingman values.
“I am proud to be part of a club with such a strong culture of teamwork and support, which is what the Wingman is all about,” Matthew said. “These values are already well-developed within the playing group and among other members of the club.”
League winners receive a $250 cheque, while their club wins a $250 sports equipment voucher and a commemorative football.
Since the launch of the wider Wingman campaign in May, the number of Facebook fanpage ’likes’ has increased almost 200 per cent, from 1,500 to more than 4,400 followers. People can show their commitment to the Wingman values, like looking out for your mates, by taking the Wingman pledge at www.facebook.com/champmoves
Media contact: Michael Newhouse, ph. 8684 0307
Last Modified on 15/11/2012 09:13