The Goulburn Valley League round 14 clash between Shepparton and the Cats falls under the TAC’s Road Safety Round, with clubs across Victoria involved in the TAC club rewards initiative to wear blue armbands on Saturday.
Club faithful are also encouraged to turn up wearing blue to promote the messaging, as well as engage with the armband displays and social media tags #TACBandTogether and #BeTheDifference.
While the Bears will be sharing opposition colours around the biceps this weekend, albeit a different shade to Mooroopna’s navy, Shepparton president Brendan Bicknell is hoping the messaging sinks in that road safety is paramount when travelling to and from sport.
“This initiative is about more than just wearing an armband,” Bicknell said.
“It’s a reminder to every person who sees it — whether on the field, on the netball court, or on the sidelines — that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.
“The stats are confronting.
“As a regional club, many of our members drive long distances to train, play and support.
“We’re encouraging everyone to slow down, plan and get home safe.”
This year’s program has a focus on speeding, noting even driving 5 km/h over the speed limit increases the risk of a crash by 44 per cent.
Clubs involved in the initiative could receive up to $10,000 in funding for leading proactive road safety campaigns.
“If even one conversation or armband helps save a life, it’s worth it,” Bicknell said.
“This weekend is about football, netball and family — but it’s also about making sure everyone gets home safely.”
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