Good Sports is a national program that helps community sports clubs change their culture to become more focused on young people and families by providing leadership and support to build viable and friendly environments in which alcohol is managed responsibly.

As part of the program, healthy eating is promoted, physical participation is encouraged and on-site smoking is restricted as required by law.

To achieve level 1 accreditation of the three-step program, a sporting club has to adhere to the Liquor Licensing laws (if they are licensed); train their bar staff in the Responsible Serving of Alcohol; (if they are licensed and sell alcohol) ensure their coaches are accredited; and provide a few healthier food and drink alternatives in their canteen.

Good Sports Hunter New England regional manager and former Newcastle Knight’s player, Marc Glanville said it’s great that our local community sporting clubs are accepting a leadership role and are committed to creating healthy, family friendly environments.

“This program is a win-win for everyone,” he said.

“Clubs grow and prosper, the communities are safer places and the club is a more attractive place to be for players, spectators and volunteers.

“We have recently achieved a major milestone in the program with over 200 sporting clubs throughout the Hunter New England region achieving level 1 accreditation in the Good Sports Program,” he said.

President of the Dungog Rugby League Football Club Jason Townsend said the initiative was “very good”.

“We are trying to change the image that people went to the football and had a skinful of grog to enjoy themselves,” he said.

“We want to encourage families to come along and have a good time and to act responsibly.

“Marc came along to one of our meetings and everyone thought it was a good idea . . . it was embraced by the club.