Resources / Paul Bugeja / 04 March 2011 / 12 Comments Bet Now

Betfair has launched a fantastic new initiative to show its support of grass-roots sporting clubs across the country.

From the dusty football fields of the outback to the surf clubs that adorn Australia's iconic beaches, amateur sport is a crucial part of our culture.

To help sports clubs continue to provide inspiration and enjoyment for people of all ages, Betfair is pleased to launch Cash 4 Clubs, a sports funding scheme which gives clubs the opportunity to apply for cash grants.

The money can be used to improve facilities, purchase new equipment, gain coaching qualifications and generally invest in the sustainability of their club.

Betfair's Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Twaits said: "We believe very strongly in the value of grass roots community sport and Cash 4 Clubs has been conceived to give amateur clubs around Australia a helping hand.

"Sport plays a vital role in people's lives, from maintaining fitness, promoting teamwork and boosting self-esteem and it's important that sports clubs around the country remain a hub of enjoyment and participation within the community."

Any club registered with their sport's National Governing Body or local authority can apply for a grant under the Cash 4 Clubs scheme.

Betfair has enlisted the help of two prominent Australian football identities and former Australian Test cricketing great, Greg Chappell, to judge the most worthy applications.

Through his work as the AFL's Community Facility Development Manager, Ken Gannon has seen first-hand what's required to run an amateur sports clubs.

"The great challenge for local sporting clubs is to provide a quality environment that will engage with the local community, especially the youth. Grants such as the Cash 4 Clubs program will help those clubs gain those high standards we all want in our community."

Joining Gannon on the judging panel will be Wests Tigers 2005 premiership winning forward, John Skandalis.

"I grew up playing junior rugby league in the Western Suburbs of Sydney and was fortunate enough to progress to the elite level. I couldn't have achieved what I have without the support of so many people at junior level and Betfair's Cash 4 Clubs initiative will provide a much needed financial boost for many sports clubs around Australia," Skandalis said.

Clubs can apply for a Cash 4 Clubs grant of up to $1000, awarded three times per year, by filling out the online application form at any time, available at CASH FOR CLUBS

BETFAIR CASH 4 CLUBS - HOW IT WORKS

What is Cash 4 Clubs?

Cash 4 Clubs is a sports funding scheme which gives clubs a chance to apply for grants to maintain and improve the club.

How do clubs apply?

Clubs can apply for a Cash 4 Clubs Sports Grant by filling out our application form at the dedicated website cash4clubs.betfair.com.au

What grants are available?

Grants of up to $1000 are available, which are awarded on a discretionary basis.

Who can apply?

Any sports club registered with their sports National Governing Body or local authority.

How are the grants chosen?

By a panel of three judges. Grants will be awarded three times per year by our selection panel.

What is Betfair's involvement?

Betfair created the Cash 4 Clubs program to provide community sports clubs in Australia with much needed funds. Betfair recognises the importance of sport in building vibrant communities and is committed to supporting sports development at all levels in Australia.