Dandenong sporting clubs will share more than $8000 in funding to meet demand for women’s sides and social sport.
Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the VicHealth Active Club Grants would help some clubs to field a women and girls’ team or host a social competition for the first time.
Dandenong Cricket Club will use $2500 to hold a mid-week women’s social cricket competition.
Mulgrave Baseball Club will spend $2500 on fielding a senior women’s team in the summer league.
Most of the players are new to baseball.
Doveton Special Soccer School will use $3000 to organise walking football activities for people with disabilities or those who cannot run.
“We want to support locals to get active and embrace a healthy lifestyle, no matter what age, gender or ability,” she said.
“Due to a lack of time, lack of confidence, and societal pressures, many Dandenong residents just aren’t fitting the recommended amount of physical activity into their week.
“In particular we know women are much less likely to take part in club sport compared to men.
“Women deserve the same opportunities as men to play sport and be active.
“Women’s sport is increasingly popular and these grants will help local clubs field new women’s and girls’ teams.”
VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said the grant program was about helping Victoria’s grassroots sport clubs to provide a wider range of opportunities for everyone to get involved “including people who wouldn’t normally have the chance to play sport”.
“Some of the successful clubs will deliver creative and flexible sports programs to help locals fit exercise into their busy daily routines,” she said.
Visit www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/activeclub for more information about the grants.
