By DAVID NAGEL
THE Beaconsfield Football Club is sending an open invitation to players, officials and parents from all clubs in the South East Football Netball League to attend an alcohol and drug education night next week.
The timely initiative, in partnership with the Empire Nightclub in Narre Warren, comes on the back of a recent government inquiry, acknowledging the use of methamphetamines in regional sport.
The inquiry found that suburban and country footballers are using ice as a performance-enhancing substance, with abusers as young as 14 being involved in some cases.
Beaconsfield Football Club president Gary Valentine said the message to come out of the event was very clear indeed.
“We’ve had this organised for some time, but what’s been in the media recently has really brought the issue to light,” he said.
“Drugs in general are a huge problem in the community and along with the Empire Club we’re keen to do what we can to make sure everyone involved in the league is educated on the issue.”
Guest speakers include Andrew Holt, from the Youth Support and Advocacy Service, Steve Wood from Victoria Police, Geelong AFL star Jimmy Bartel and ex-Fremantle and St Kilda player Heath Black.
The alcohol and drug education night will take place on Tuesday 31 March, from 7.30 to 9pm, at the Empire Club, 14-22 Lauderdale Road, Narre Warren.
