AFLPA supports FebFast

29 Jan 2008 - Jason Murnane

FebFast encourages people to take a break from their alcohol consumption during the shortest month of the year, and at the same time raise funds to help services that support young people with substance abuse problems.

AFL Players' Association CEO, Brendon Gale, said "the AFL Players' Association is pleased to offer its support to the FebFast initiative. We support FebFast's efforts in helping educate the community and raise awareness towards the responsible use of alcohol. 

"The Christmas / New Year period can be a time of overindulgence so the idea of having an alcohol free February is for many an attractive proposition.  Individuals undertaking the FebFast challenge will not only help raise money towards assisting young people experiencing problems with substance abuse, they'll also feel a lot better for the experience."

FebFast Founder, Fiona Healy, said the organisation was privileged to have the support from the AFL Players' Association and its members.

"These young footballers are elite sportsmen, at the peak of health and fitness and with a world of opportunity before them. By contrast, those receiving the benefit of FebFast funding are of a similar age but are struggling with problems associated with substance use and have had limited opportunities to improve their lives,' said Ms Healy. 

Participants can purchase a $15 date stamped Time Out Certificate from the FebFast website. The Certificate works like a leave pass and entitles the participant to enjoy a few drinks at the occasion without ruining their FebFast commitment. However, they are expected to resume their FebFast participation the next day.

Senior executives from the AFL, Victoria Police, the Victorian Magistrates Court, The Australian Drug Foundation and the Youth Substance Abuse Service are participating in FebFast and encouraging their employees to participate as well.

More than 200 people have registered to participate in the first year of FebFast. Collectively they have already raised more than $25,000.  All donations to FebFast made in Australia over $2 are tax deductible.

Individuals can register their participation at the FebFast website, www.febfast.com.au.