Sport means different things to different people. For some, it’s about competition and skill. For others, it’s connection, friendship, and simply being part of something bigger than themselves.
As part of the Play Well Gippsland campaign, we asked local players to share why they play. Their stories show the many ways sport creates belonging, builds confidence, and brings joy.
Beth: Soccer is Community
For Beth, soccer isn’t just a game — it’s her community. As a player, coach, and president of Leongatha Knights FC, she values the sense of belonging that comes from being part of her club.
“I love playing because soccer is my community.”
Clubs like the Knights are more than places to play — they’re hubs where people support one another and build lasting connections.
Jen: The Fun of Being Part of the Action
For Jen, sport is all about being part of the action. As a cricket player with the Leongatha Town Scorpions, she loves the fun of joining in and being with others.
“I do it because being out there is so much more fun than being on the sidelines.”
Her story is a reminder that sport doesn’t have to be about winning or losing — sometimes, the best moments come from simply joining in.
Emma: Finding Connection Through Sport
Moving to a new place can be daunting, but for Emma, joining the Leongatha Knights was the perfect way to meet people and feel at home.
“I love playing soccer because it helps me to meet new people, especially when you’ve moved from overseas.”
Her story captures what Play Well Gippsland is all about: connection, belonging, and the joy of giving something new a go.
Discover Your Own “Why I Play”
These voices are just the beginning. Sport in Gippsland is full of stories about connection, community, and joy.
Want to be inspired? Come along to the Play Well Expos and hear more community voices in person at our Why I Play panels:
South Gippsland Expo – Saturday 25 October, Leongatha (10:30am panel)
Latrobe Expo – Saturday 8 November, Morwell (10:30am panel)
