This is the first dedicated Blue Ribbon Round in the football leagues. 

Blue Ribbon Foundation Horsham Branch president Geoff Lord said the round, in line with the AFL’s Blue Ribbon Round, aimed to promote the work of the foundation.

It also raises money and highlights the Spirit of Sport Awards given to the under-17s football and netball players.

“Blue Ribbon Foundation Horsham Branch raises funds for equipment at Wimmera Health Care Group, predominantly in the Emergency Department, in the memory of fallen police officers,” Mr Lord said.

“The committee is made up of hospital staff, Victoria Police members and passionate community members who are all volunteers. 

“Blue Ribbon awards an under-17s player in one round of netball and football each week with a Spirit of Sport award that celebrates not only skill but also leadership and sportsmanship.

“The Blue Ribbon Round will see an under-17s player from each netball and football game at each game receive a special award.” 

Mr Lord said the Horsham Branch would have a committee member or a police officer at each game to present the awards.

Money will be raised by each club making donations to the branch.

AFL Wimmera Mallee General Manager Steve McQueen said the round at a local level followed in the footsteps of St Kilda versus Hawthorn. 

“The leagues had been involved with Blue Ribbon for some time with the players of the round,” he said. 

“It is all to do with police awareness and the under-17 age group is who Blue Ribbon wanted (involved).”

There will be a player awarded the Blue Ribbon player of the round throughout the year in both football and netball. 

The winner of the medal is a player who exhibits great sportsmanship.