Hawthorn Football Club has teamed up with Carlton, taking a united stand against street violence as part of Step Back Think’s ‘Lace Up’ campaign. Watch the video.

Step Back Think is a not-for-profit organisation raising awareness about street violence through school education and community campaigns.

It was formed in the wake of the irreversible brain damage sustained by Melbournian James Macready-Bryan, following an assault on his 20th birthday in 2006.

During the Round 12 match, players from both sides will sport orange shoe laces in support of the campaign urging people to consider the ramifications of street violence.

Hawthorn’s Step Back Think ambassador, Josh Gibson has thrown his support behind this ever growing issue. “Street violence is a scary issue for people around my age.

Anyone can be targeted, it could be one of my teammates, a family member or even myself, that’s why it’s so important to raise awareness and hopefully reduce the number of young people attacked on our streets.”

Step Back Think Chief Executive, Sophie Rowe, said “Footy plays such a large part in Victorian culture and it’s a vital platform for us to share our message with young people.

“It’s an important issue that has touched many Victorians, including football players, and their surrounding communities directly. It’s amazing to have the two clubs showing their support.”

Prior to Friday nights clash, 8,000 pairs of orange laces will be distributed free with the AFL Record giving fans the opportunity to support the ‘Lace Up’ initiative.

You can also go into the draw to win up to $15,000 worth of prizes teams by simply taking a photo of yourself or your team spreading the Step Back Think message by wearing the orange laces.

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