The “Think Pat” message will be front and centre on May 5-7 when thousands of players from the Essendon District Football League, Northern Football Netball League, and Bendigo Football Netball League take part in the annual Pat Cronin Foundation Round.
The acronym, which we’re now taking into schools and sports clubs as part of our Be Wise Education Program, sums up key aspects of strategies to keep anger and aggression under control.
The aim of the Round is to raise awareness of the dangers of violence and is an important plank in our grassroots approach to education. The Think Pat message is one that we’ll be emphasising throughout the weekend.
We believe that reaching out to young people, and particularly young men, at a community level will make the most difference, including our mission to end the Coward Punch.
Our partnerships with the leagues are particularly valuable and relevant, as emotions are often running high in the rough and tumble of competitive sport.
What we’re asking clubs to do during the Pat Cronin Foundation Round
All clubs are encouraged to make a statement of support to end the Coward Punch.
As a simple gesture of respect we also ask that all players shake the hands of their opponents before and after each game.
Coaches are encouraged to talk to their players about the dangers and consequences of violence – including the Coward Punch – both on and off the field. To reinforce the message all players are asked to wear a yellow armband to remember Pat.
Everyone is encouraged to get behind the Round
The EDFL Board has agreed to match $1 for each $1 raised by Clubs up to a maximum of $5000 - so if Clubs collectively raise $5000 the league will contribute a further $5000.
We’re urging everyone to get along to one of the featured matches and enjoy a great family day out.
Our major call to action is that everyone respects each other. Please keep this top of mind – not only on the sporting field but also going forward in daily life.
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To keep up to date with everything we’re doing, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. The Pat Cronin Foundation is dedicated to empowering young people never to use violence. Please donate to the Foundation so that we can continue to provide our Be Wise presentations to schools and clubs everywhere. Be wise. Think carefully. Act kindly.
