The transition to a new season brings with it a set of associated costs.
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Uniforms, footwear, insurance, referees and medical supplies are among them.
In a time where cost-of-living challenges are front of mind for families, being involved in sports is far from cheap.
Goulburn Valley Water is offering free water bottles to youth-based community and sports groups as part of Building Winter Champions through Choose Tap, hoping to alleviate some of that expense, even if only in a small way.
Managing director Steve Capewell said the region’s enthusiasm for winter activities offered GVW a chance to pitch in.
“Both club officials and parents are spending large amounts of money to satisfy the participation requirements of their children in winter sports and community-based activities,” Mr Capewell said.
“Just about all towns in our service area will have junior sporting teams and youth groups that are feeling the pinch.
“If we can help out in a small way by providing some drink bottles, then it is the least we can do.
“It will also hopefully encourage younger generations to remember the importance of staying hydrated while playing sport and to choose tap water as their drink of choice.”
Any youth-based organisations, sporting or otherwise, can apply for support.
Applications will remain open until June 1, when winter officially descends on the Goulburn Valley.