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Leading into White Ribbon Night on Friday, July 25, White Ribbon ambassador and Newcastle Knight, Clint Newton has spoken about the campaign and how the Newcastle Knights are supporting the cause. 

Friday July 25 is White Ribbon Night where communities across Australia are set to unite in support of bringing an end to violence against women. 

For Newton one of the most compelling reasons to prevent domestic violence is that on average, one woman a week is killed at the hands of a current or former partner.

“That should resonate with Australian men because that’s an incredibly haunting stat,” he said.

“It’s incredibly scary considering the fact there’s potentially going to be children there.”

Domestic violence is also the leading cause of homelessness for women with kids in Australia.

As an ambassador of White Ribbon, the veteran league player is detirmined to get people speaking about the issue and encourage more to stand up against domestic violence. 

"I wanted to use the rugby league profile and my profile to get behind a charity and I thought that White Ribbon was the one that probably meant the most to me."

He explained that although he has grown up surrounded by respectful relationships, he has seen a number of people close to him affected physically, mentally and emotionally by violence committed by the hands of men. 

“The reason it's been one of the silent killer in Australia is the fact that it probably hasn’t been spoken about enough.

“I think that’s where men have gotten on board and can play a huge role in the prevention of violence towards women.

The Newcastle Knights took the time to speak about the issue of domestic violence on Thursday and to reflect on the women in their life that they respect.

“It’s great to have a rugby league such as the Newcastle Knights be such tremendous supporters of such a great cause and a cause that’s close to my heart.

“I know the players are right behind it with the message.

“One of the things that men need to understand, and especially if you’ve got a profile, is that we can do more.

“It all comes back to the fact of trying to reach as many men out there and make them understand what’s expected from them and what it means to be a man and to intervene or act out if there’s something they see as inappropriate behaviour.

“It all just boils down to respect."

For more information about White Ribbon Night visit the website HERE