By Lucy Waldron
Demonstrating solidarity and advocacy, the Stanthorpe Gremlins and Zonta Stanthorpe joined forces on 11 May to celebrate RESPECT Month in the Queensland Rugby League.
RESPECT Month, part of a game-wide campaign from the grassroots level to the Super League, is dedicated to promoting positive environments within the sport and combatting any instances of anti-social or discriminatory behaviours.
Desleigh Volpato, President of Zonta Stanthorpe, emphasised Zonta’s commitment to building a better world for women and girls through community engagement.
“It was important for us to showcase our presence not only locally but to the wider community who gathered to watch the Gremlins play,“ Ms Volpato said.
During the day, Zonta Stanthorpe distributed RESPECT stickers and provided a QR code leading to a website promoting respectful relationships.
The message of respect resonated throughout the day, from players to spectators, reinforcing the club’s ethos of “respect all and fear none.“
Ms Volpato highlighted the significance of promoting respect, especially amidst media coverage on domestic violence issues, stating, “The message of the day comes at an important time in society.“
The Queensland Rugby League recognises the pivotal role of behaviour both on and off the field in community Rugby League matches.
As part of RESPECT Month, Match Officials and Team Captains will shake hands before kick-off as a symbol of mutual respect. “Remember, it’s positive or it’s pointless,“ a spokesperson for the Stanthorpe Gremlins said.
RESPECT in Rugby League extends beyond the game itself; it embodies the values of fairness, inclusivity, and sportsmanship. The RESPECT campaign features Codes of Conduct for all participants, outlining expected behaviours and disciplinary procedures for any unacceptable conduct.
Stanthorpe Gremlins and Zonta Stanthorpe’s collaborative celebration of RESPECT Month highlight the community’s commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion within the sport of Rugby League during a vital time.
