Community S*port

Community S*port (pronounced ‘support’) is a program created by Sport and Recreation, to develop and promote sport in communities across the Northern Territory.

Generally run over three days, the program involves the provision of sports clinics to children by Sport Development Officers from the Northern Territory sporting organisations.

Children have the opportunity to participate in team based competitions with other children of their own age and ability levels.

Another vital part of the program is the professional development of teachers, school staff, community sport and recreation officers and community volunteers, to provide them with the skills needed to continue sport in their school or community.

Sport and Recreation launched the Community S*port initiative at Mataranka in 2003 with nine communities participating in a total of 12 sports.

The second Community S*port event was held in Tennant Creek in May 2004, with 11 communities/230 children taking part in sports such as AFL, Athletics, Basketball, Football, Golf, Soccer and Touch Football.

Due to the success of the program, it is expected that another Community S*port event will be held at Mataranka in September 2004.

Sport and Recreation and the Education Department hold consultations with communities and schools to determine their needs, then develop and deliver a suitable sporting and professional program to be delivered. In addition, Sport and Recreation works with Sport Development Officers and provides resources and funding closely to support the event.

The program has been developed as a model to assist in the delivery of sport to remote and rural areas. It also provides a service for Active Australia Schools Network members to encourage schools to be physically active.

For more information on Community S*port, call Sport and Recreation on 1800 045 678.