By Freddie Holmes
Welsh sports fans and players are being urged to not let booze ruin the result after a survey showed the widespread negative effect alcohol is having on Welsh sport.
The survey by Alcohol Concern Cymru revealed 78% of amateur sports people in Wales have played sport with a hangover, and that 85% of Welsh sports fans drink every time they watch their favourite sport.
The campaign set out by ACC is designed to get sports fans and players thinking about how excessive drinking can ruin a good day’s sport. The latest campaign urges local clubs and players to pledge not to let alcohol ruin the result for themselves and their team.
Andrew Misell at Alcohol Concern Cymru said: “Sport is big in Wales, and often goes hand in hand with big-time drinking. We want to challenge the idea that sport and alcohol have to go together – whether we’re watching sport at the ground, in the pub, or on the sofa; or if we’re taking part on the pitch or socialising with teammates afterwards.
“For many of us, cheering on our favourite team is often accompanied by a few drinks, but when you’re watching an afternoon’s sport it’s easy to overdo it. As well as a sore head in the morning, too much booze can leave you struggling to remember great sporting moments, as well wishing you could forget your own drunken behaviour.”
Fans are also being urged to think about whether they would enjoy the game more with less alcohol.
Paul Thorburn, ex-Wales rugby captain, said: “Traditionally, there has always been a place for alcohol in sport, whether as a spectator who might drink before, during and after a game, or a player who celebrates a win after a competition.
“Sport has always been recognised as a great medium to interact and engage with people, and throughout my career in professional rugby where I have had many enjoyable years, I have seen the close association between alcohol and sport.
“We have to make sure however, that enjoyment in alcohol by both participants and spectators is in moderation, and does not break the boundaries of good social interaction, friendship, fun and health.”
Local teams that sign up also get entered into a prize draw to win a coaching session with a top Welsh coach.
For more information visit www.drinkwisewales.org.uk
Rugby without beer, now that's a thought…
A bit like rugby without the ball.