Jigalong football program recognised

A football-based incentive program in the remote Pilbara community of Jigalong has been recognised for its success keeping teenage boys in school.

The Keeping Them in School Football Program is one of three finalists in the McCusker Centre for Action on Alcohol and Youth Awards government category which recognises programs reducing the harm of alcohol on youth in WA.

Run by the local school and police, the program rewards students who attend school each day and demonstrate good behaviour with a football trip to neighbouring town Newman every Friday afternoon during football season.

Jigalong community school teacher Greg Grant said he and Jigalong police Senior Sergeant Neil Gordon had been running the program for three years.

The students play in the Newman Junior Football Club under-14s and under-17s divisions.

“The attendance at school has been incredible, ” Mr Grant said.

“I’ve taught at other remote communities and I’ve never come across such a program that has allowed that consistent attendance day in, day out.”

Mr Grant said the program also allowed teachers and police to interact with the students on a more social level.

“It provides that informal setting where we can chat with the boys about alcohol and drugs in general as well as how sport plays a vital role in keeping them engaged in school, ” he said.

“On the Friday they can blow off steam, they get to run around and we buy them pizza.”

The winners of the MCAAY Awards will be announced next month.