SAB builds sports fields to combat underage drinking

The first sports field was unveiled at Tobi Sports Field, Umbumbulu, south of Durban A second field in Ngome, Greytown will be launched in early January 2012. SAB believes that youth development is best encouraged by addressing some of the social issues which hamper this. The sporting facilities are a first step towards achieving this objective.

"The youth are key to our nation's prosperity and longevity and have always played an important role in South African history by driving positive change. To maintain this strength, the present generation needs to protect and develop the youth and help them become the country's future leaders," says Dr Vincent Maphai, SAB's executive director of corporate affairs and transformation. "The high levels of alcohol abuse amongst South Africa's youth is a great concern for us as a leading producer and distributor of alcoholic beverages."

Organised sport a key step

Expert studies indicate that between 50% and 70% of learners are experimenting with alcohol and one third of learners are binge drinkers. According to studies, key contributory factors to underage drinking include boredom, an escape from domestic problems and poverty.

Organised sport has been identified as a key step towards addressing underage drinking. It can have a significant positive impact, empowering them, increasing their self-esteem and feelings of belonging and providing positive role models.

SAB has taken the opportunity to provide structured, long lasting artificial football turfs constructed in areas identified as hotspots for youth crime and underage drinking. Identified areas are also close to schools to ensure majority youth participation in organised sport.