The initiative involves the Maitland Pickers (rugby league), Blacks (rugby union), Mustangs (basketball), Magpies (football) and Rams (hockey) committing to the White Ribbon Day cause, and using their club to promote an anti-domestic violence message.

Chamber president Craig McGregor said he was alarmed to see the figures relating to domestic violence incidents in the Maitland area, and felt compelled to use his position to do something about it.

Mr McGregor said he believed sporting people were role models in the Maitland community and had the power to spread the message to a wide audience.

“I think these clubs play a big part in our community and if they unite under such a banner we may be able to effect change,” Mr McGregor said.

The project is already well underway, with the Mustangs leading the charge by hosting a “White Out” day earlier this month.

As part of the White Out event, the team wore an alternate all white playing uniform, the first time they had done so at home in a long time.

They also encouraged supporters to dress in white to show their support as well.

Players from all participating teams will take part in an education program run by Carrie’s Place during the week of White Ribbon Day in November.

The chamber is also working on a collective Maitland sporting round next year, where all clubs will play home games on the one weekend in dedication of White Ribbon, and raise funds for the cause.

Mr McGregor said it has been an easy process from his end, as the clubs jumped at the opportunity to be involved.

“Once we talked to the clubs about the idea everyone saw merit in the power of having these high profile sporting guys make a stand locally,” he said. 

“The education program will hopefully be a driver in the community to drastically reduce domestic violence in our region.”