Champions of Rugby initiative is back for 2025
RugbyWA and Healthway have teamed up once again to deliver the Champions of Rugby initiative, which recognises rugby clubs for their commitment to fostering positive, inclusive and healthy club environments.
This year, the initiative will provide a holistic approach to health and wellbeing by raising awareness of the harms associated with alcohol use and promoting mental wellbeing to create safe, welcoming and supportive spaces within clubs.
Healthway CEO Colin Smith said this initiative is a fantastic opportunity for clubs to prioritise the health and wellbeing of its members.
“Rugby clubs are vital hubs in our communities, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds who form strong friendships, and develop a shared sense of belonging through their shared passion for the sport,” he said
“We are proud to work with Rugby WA to motivate and support rugby clubs to implement health and wellbeing initiatives through training, education and competitions like this one.”
In 2024, Kalamunda Districts were the inaugural recipients of the Champions of Rugby, winning $5,000 for their approach to changing the club drinking culture to create an inclusive, healthy club environment. Their initiatives included:
- Displaying posters with local support services
- Integrating low alcohol menus into their bars
- Establishing an Alcohol Responsibility Coordinator
- Information sessions and activities targeting specific age groups to promote healthy living.
Kalamunda Club President Barry Jordan said that the main thing the Champions of Rugby initiative has done is start a conversation around the club.
“There’s been lots of positive reaction but also some pushback from some people who probably don’t understand that we are trying to provide choices, not force change onto them. There is still some education to be done in this area,” he said.
He shared that for the club, the process of creating and implementing these changes was spearheaded by one dedicated Committee Member, making the process simple.
“It was relatively easy as we had Ellie Wilkinson take ownership of it and she did an awesome job.”
The club benefitted from introducing non-alcoholic options while raising awareness about the harms associated with alcohol use.
The $5,000 prize funded equipment upgrades and increased accessibility to the game.
This year, $5,000 will again be available to further support the winning club’s project and enhance the overall club environment.
The first round of submissions is due on June 6, with final submissions closing on August 1. To learn more about the Champions of Rugby initiative, visit the ‘Champions of Rugby’ page.
