SONS of the West foundation members in Ballarat now have a chance to move into Western Bulldogs’ leadership academy.
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Any men who have completed the three years of Sons of the West in Sebastopol and Wendouree, graduating as captains, can apply for the next stage of the community men’s health program.
Western Bulldogs Community Foundation health and well-being manager Dimity Gannon said City of Ballarat boasts one of the best graduation rates in the state’s west.
A combined 59 of 75 men registered in the Wendouree and Sebastopol programs graduated, with 16 Smythesdale members, in a ceremony at Ballarat Regional Soccer Facility last week.
Western Bulldogs’ icon and Sons of the West ambassador Tony Liberatore was special guest for the celebrations, encouraging the men to stay on top of their health.
“The guys loved chatting with Libba and it’s great for Sons of the West participants to hear his transition from football,” Ms Gannon said.
“He’s really great at connecting with the Sons of the West guys with chat and a bit of banter, which is important in the program.”
Sons of the West promote men’s health awareness and physical activity. Open to men of all ages, participants’ average age is 54 and has success in helping to link up men who tend to be socially isolated in the community.
The program offers match day incentives for men to get a check-up with their general practitioner and Ballarat programs had one of the highest uptakes.
Sons of the West is delivered in partnership with City of Ballarat and Sports Central Ballarat.
Sister program Daughters of the West will return to Ballarat this year after overwhelming demand booked out the women’s health pilot program in the city last season.
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