BEING able to play a part in the fight against HIV/AIDS and NCD’s is what has motivated FASANOC’s STOP Champions every time they go on to an outreach.

Last month 11 STOP Champions including STOP co-coordinator Jeegar Bhasvar conducted outreach at three different sporting events in the Western Division.

This included the Women’s Football IDC in Ba, the Mates Hockey Tournament and the Suva Men’s and Mixed Netball tournament in Lautoka.

“We are lucky to have STOP Champions who are elite athletes themselves so they are able to communicate very well with their sporting peers,” said Jeegar.

He said the STOP Champions managed to target more than 600 athletes and disseminate information concerning the effects of HIV/AIDS and NCD’s.

“As we approach World AIDS Day, we thought this would be a good way for us as a FASANOC program to contribute and play our part in getting the message across.”

STOP Champion and Team Fiji sprinter Francis Kirikirikula said it was easy talking to other athletes who were basically the same age as they were.

“Usually young people tend to shy away from discussing important issues concerning HIV/AIDS and NCD’s when they are approached by someone older.

“But with us they are more comfortable and willing to learn about these important issues that we are advocating,” said Francis.

STOP Champions used popular board games like snakes and ladders in order to get their message across to athletes.

STOP Champion and Team Fiji body builder Isimeli Waqabaca said the games were an awesome and fun way of getting their message across to their target groups.

“These games were created by FASANOC volunteer Stephanie Franet and was aimed specifically for athletes and younger generations,” he said.

“The games are focused around HIV/AIDS and NCD’s and really get the message across in a fun way.”

Red pins were also handed out to athletes to remind them of the importance of World AIDS Day and why they should continue to strive for a better, healthier and sporty lifestyle.