AFLPA remains vigilant on gambling

14 Jul 2005 - Jason Murnane

As part of this approach, the AFLPA, in conjunction with AFL clubs, delivers a number of initiatives, designed to educate players on the dangers of gambling.

"We stand by our interactive and practical programs which deal with gambling," Gale said. 

These programs include;

A Gambling Workshop at the AFLPA / AFL Induction Camp.  All newly drafted players attend this workshop, detailing the AFL Player Rules as they apply to gambling. 

Every club throughout the season also receives a 'Risky Business' workshop.  This workshop educates players on what is gambling, where problems can lead, identifying when you have a problem and where to get help amongst many others.

The AFL Players' Association also works closely with Gamblers Anonymous, delivering workshops to players and clubs detailing real life examples of where "problem" gambling can lead to.  Presented by former gambling addicts, these workshops offer the personal and powerful experience of a reformed problem gambler. 

Players also have access to a 24 hour seven day a week counselling service, where issues such as "problem" gambling can be discussed.

"We remain committed to providing AFL players with the appropriate tools and support to make the right decisions.  We believe our gambling education workshops, coupled with our range of other player welfare and education initiatives, are world's best practice and form a key part of our responsibility to our members." Gale said.