The benefits of good behaviour

A Rockhampton junior football club has been the first to receive a Positive or it’s pointless — Equipment program grant for being a good sport.

The Nerimbera Brothers Football Club simply signed up to the campaign to encourage kids to enjoy their sport free from negative behaviour.

Club president Mark Brown says the campaign seems to be working well in the few months since the club started the program.

“We bring the key messages of the campaign to people’s attention at the start of games,” says Mark.

“The message is also on the website, so most players and parents are aware of it.

“It’s a great opportunity for spreading the message about positivity in sport.”

The club will spend the $1000 grant on much needed training equipment such as balls, ball bags and markers for the 2012 season.

The Positive or it’s pointless campaign aims to reduce poor and unacceptable player, spectator and parent behaviour to make sport safe for all children.

Australian football, baseball, basketball, cricket, hockey, netball, rugby league, rugby union, softball and soccer clubs that sign up to the campaign through the Positive or it’s pointless – Equipment program can receive grants of up to $2000, depending on the number of club members, and if they have developed a positive behaviour plan that they will roll out within 12 months.

Clubs with less than 100 members may be eligible for $500, 100 to 200 members $1000 and clubs with more than 200 members can apply for grants of up to $2000 to purchase equipment. 

The Queensland Government also provides access to free resources and online training.

For more information, phone 1300 656 191 or go to www.sportrec.qld.gov.au and click on Positive or it’s pointless.

Message from Laura Geitz, Queensland Firebirds

Playing sport is all about having a go and enjoying a safe and fair game. With your positive support, respect and encouragement for others, we can all enjoy a fun game.

As a member of the 2011 premiership winning Queensland Firebirds, I know the importance of not only training hard to achieve the best, but also in having a positive attitude and playing fairly.

Whether you’re playing a social game with friends or competing in an elite competition, we must always remember to play fair and have a good time.

Players, parents, spectators, officials, coaches and volunteers all need to respect and encourage others so that we can all enjoy the game.

Let’s make a difference and make junior sport positive everyday. Remember, it’s Positive or it’s pointless.