Football NSW and Heartbeat of Football continue partnership to improve heart health
Football NSW and Heartbeat of Football have agreed to a three-year extension of their partnership to support player welfare and safety with a focus on heart health.
The alliance will continue to raise awareness about heart health issues, encourage people to make positive health choices and work to ensure a safe sporting environment for NSW football participants of any age.
Football NSW CEO John Tsatsimas acknowledged the importance of the wider heart health issue and the vital role Heartbeat of Football has played.
“Football is a year-round activity with a large number of participants, so it’s important to help educate our community about heart health and share practical steps people can take to protect themselves and their families. This partnership reinforces our commitment to providing the best possible health and safety resources and programs to the entire Football NSW family.”
“We value the work of the Heartbeat of Football team and look forward to collaborating with them on some exciting campaigns and initiatives over the coming years.”
Heartbeat of Football Founder Andy Paschalidis was appreciative of FNSW’s support in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience that allows footballers, referees, coaches and all football participants to participate safely in the game for as long as possible.
“Heartbeat of Football has enjoyed the support of Football NSW from the start of our journey in 2016,” he said.
This partnership builds on our existing relationship and allows us to better support the wellbeing of the football community across NSW. With sudden cardiac arrest a leading cause of death in sport, we recognise the importance of education and raising awareness of heart disease risk factors.”
Both entities are currently working together on the Heartbeat of Sport AED Mapping Project which is asking clubs and associations to register their AED. The data will directly support NSW Ambulance and its GoodSAM emergency response system, allowing first responders and bystanders to locate the nearest AED in real time during an emergency. It will also provide a comprehensive register to help guide future investment to areas of greatest need.
