Footy clubs take a stand against gambling harm

Across clubrooms, change rooms, and social feeds, the message was loud and clear: footy is about mateship, not bets.

As part of The Real Stakes Round, community footy clubs stepped up to tackle one of the game’s most pressing off-field challenges: the rising harm caused by online sports gambling, particularly among young players.

Driven by the leagues and supported by ambassadors, players, and coaches alike, the round saw clubs take meaningful steps to start conversations, raise awareness, and support each other in building safer, stronger environments.

A key highlight of the round was the series of club information sessions delivered to participating teams. These sessions provided players, coaches and volunteers with practical tools to recognise gambling harm, understand the risks, and learn how to have supportive conversations with their mates.

A standout moment of the round was the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Luncheon, where AFLW and WNBL star Monique Conti delivered a powerful keynote. Monique reflected on the pressures young athletes face both in elite environments and at the grassroots. Her message was clear: creating a strong club culture starts with looking out for one another, being honest about challenges like gambling harm, and making support part of the everyday. Her presence brought energy, insight, and inspiration to the event, set the tone for what The Real Stakes Round is all about.

Throughout the Round, The Real Stakes branded footballs made their way into the hands of players across the three states. More than just a symbol, these footies became a conversation starter — a visual cue that something different was happening and that this week was about more than just wins and losses.

From team huddles to clubrooms, clubs took ownership of the round in their own ways. Coaches carved out time for honest discussion, senior players set the tone with openness and leadership, and behind the scenes, club administrators helped embed The Real Stakes messaging in warmups, signage, and pre-game talks — ensuring the focus remained on what really matters: people, connection, and care.

And it’s not over yet.

Tomorrow night, The Real Stakes ambassador Jacob Weitering will visit MHSOB Football Club to wrap up the round in person. The Carlton FC defender will speak with players and coaches about the pressures young athletes face, and how community sport can play a crucial role in keeping each other accountable and well.

As The Real Stakes Round draws to a close, one thing is clear: change is already underway. Conversations are happening. Through community-led education, honest conversations, and leadership from within, The Real Stakes Round has shown what’s possible when footy puts people first.

Because in the end, the real stakes aren’t found on a betting slip, they’re found in the wellbeing of the teammates, coaches, and friends we show up for every week.

To sign up for a webinar, learn more or access resources, visit realstakes.com.au.