Statistically one in three women experience domestic violence at the hands of men at some stage of their life.

They are alarming numbers that illustrate how important it is for communities to acknowledge and address the issue.

It’s something the Berkeley Football Club is well aware of as they prepare to host Corrimal in their third White Ribbon Shield match on Saturday.

It’s part of a wider effort to support the Tackling Domestic Violence campaign that asks clubs to take a public stand on the issue.

I also encourages clubs to produce their own domestic violence code of conduct and attending education workshops.

In a rugby league heartland like the Illawarra, Berkeley coach Aaron McDonald said the club felt it was its duty to educate both club members and the wider community.

“We’ve done a lot of work over the last couple of years, not only educating the players but also trying to educate the community about domestic violence,” Eagles coach Aaron McDonald said.

“We as a group, and as a society, need to step up and do something about it. 

“If this is one small way we can help out then we’re very happy to do that.”

The Eagles have taken is a step further this season, wearing a specially designed strip that will be auctioned off post-match, with funds to be donated to the White Ribbon foundation.

In addition to the special jumpers, other items on offer at auction include a St George Illawarra Indigenous Round jumper signed by Cameron McInnes.

A framed Roosters jumper from their 2016 World Club Challenge victory over St Helend will also be up for auction.

The White Ribbon Shield Day will double as the club’s ‘Jamo Memorial Day’ to commemorate the life of life member Mark Jamieson.

Games at Berkeley Sports Ground will begin with the under 6’s start at 8.30am and continue through to first grade kicking off at 3pm.