Scoring goals for responsible gambling

Football and netball players across Victoria will play in a special round of competition this weekend in recognition of Responsible Gambling Awareness Week.

The Responsible Gambling Awareness Round forms part of AFL Victoria's partnership with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation to promote responsible gambling.

AFL Victoria General Manager Grant Williams says the partnership builds on the efforts of Victorian Country Football League in 2012.

"Following the success of the Responsible Gambling Awareness program in 2012, I am pleased we can share responsible gambling messages at a grassroots level," said Mr Williams.

Former Melbourne AFL footballer and Responsible Gambling Awareness Week ambassador Daniel Ward is a passionate advocate for responsible gambling, having overcome problems with gambling.

Daniel will be visiting grassroots football clubs to share his story and experience with gambling to help raise awareness of the risks.

Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation chief executive officer Serge Sardo says role models have an important role to play in promoting responsible gambling.

"Role models, parents and peers play an important role in promoting responsible gambling to young people who are particularly vulnerable to the increase in sports betting advertising and the accessibility of online gambling," said Mr Sardo.

This is the second year AFL Victoria has supported Responsible Gambling Awareness Week, building on the partnership with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation.

Supported by government, the gambling industry, community and sporting organisations, Responsible Gambling Awareness Week kicks off on Monday 20 May 2013.

Responsible Gambling Awareness Week events will be held throughout Victoria from 20-26 May 2013.