The Purple Armband Games initiative sees sport playing a leadership role in tackling sexual assault and violence in our communities, said Young's Vac Shak team captain Peter Cockburn, initiator of the local event.

Purple Armband Games involve sports teams wearing purple armbands during a game in an expression of support to sexual assault victims/survivors as well as making and on-field statement against violence. In wearing a purple armband the teams are making a statement of respect for women, acknowledging grief caused by sexual assault and standing against all forms of violence against women.

"Sexual assault and violence is a problem in all communities, including ours. We're seeing it as a chance for everyone in our community to be involved in making an important statement about respect and community standards," he said.

Purple Armband Games draws on current research in how best to prevent sexual assault and violence against women, according to Greater Southern Area Health Service (GSAHS).

"Rather than just targeting offenders, the initiative calls on the silent majority of men and women to speak out against abusive attitudes and behaviours towards women", said GSAHS Sexual Assault Counsellor Leah Anderson.

Purple Armband Games president Ricky Onman said it's all about encouraging peer leadership and building people's confidence in speaking out.

"We're keen to see this initiative grow as hopefully, more teams and organisations get behind the prevention message," he said.

The community showed its support by watching the teams play on Saturday and making donations totalling $70.85 to the Young Hockey Association. Funds go towards providing more information and education to the community about Sexual Assault and Violence. For more information, visit www.purplearmband.org