VAFA, Adelaide Footy League, Perth Football League reveal the Real Stakes

Three major local footy competitions from across Australia have combined to help tackle growing gambling issues among young people. Here’s how.

The VAFA has entered into a new agreement. Picture: NewsWire / Nicholas Eagar

Victorian Amateur Football Association boss Jason Reddick hopes the establishment of a new program can help address the alarming rates of gambling among young people.

The VAFA has combined with the Adelaide Footy League and Perth Football League to launch The Real Stakes — an initiative which will be delivered to almost 40,000 people across 208 clubs.

It is a program which will challenge the normalisation of online sports gambling in Australia and provide crucial support to those most at risk of harm.

AFL stars Jacob Weitering and AFLW gun Monique Conti have been unveiled as program ambassadors.

The Real Stakes will deliver 15 in-person workshops and nine webinars across the three competitions and includes comprehensive educational resources, support materials, and specialised training for coaches and volunteers on identifying and addressing online sports gambling-related harm.

“Coming out of Covid, the feedback from all of our clubs was mental health was a real challenge for a lot of the community,” Reddick said.

“We’ve been looking at those areas that we can supply support in that space. Online sports gambling was one of those things that was referenced. And it was growing as well.

“For that reason, it needed attention and was critical we did something to play a role.”

Reddick said community sport continued to play a key role in fostering connection, promoting wellbeing, and building a sense of belonging.

“The growing influence of online sports gambling poses a significant threat to the foundational values of connection, wellbeing and belonging,” Reddick said.

“It’s crucial that we address the damaging impact of online sport gambling to ensure a safe, supportive environment for all participants.

“That’s exactly what this program is about. Empowering everyone, from players and coaches to volunteers and presidents, to protect and support each other from gambling harm.”