61-year old Steve Gration says the Western Bulldogs’ Sons of the West men’s health program has changed his life, the former Altona Meadows school teacher joining 350 men from across Melbourne’s West each week in getting their health back on track.

For Gration, taking part for the third year running, it’s as much about maintaining good health and meeting and supporting other men in his community as it is keeping bad habits at bay.

“It’s rippled into me getting more involved with the community,” he told Leader Newspapers.

“I have seen a positive turn-around in men of all ages who may be suffering negative feelings or mental health issues through the loss of their partner, being retrenched from work, depression or dealing with the anger and frustration that may accompany the disappointments and complications in their lives.

“The physical health improvements and insights that I have gained through participation in this program have resulted in positive developments in my emotional and mental health which in turn have informed my nutritional, exercise and general life choices.”

A big part of the programs’ success, according to Gration, is the the team-focused, supportive environment that the Club and it’s local council partners provide at each session.

Now midway through a ‘pre-season’,the full scale program will be launched in June where men of all ages and fitness levels are expected to sign up to take part in the what’s been a hugely successful initiative.  

Sessions are held every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at sites in Brimbank, Maribyrnong, Wyndham, Melton and Hobsons Bay, and all men are welcome.

Pre-season will run until April 28 and to take part, all men need to do is attend their local session.

Dates and times are here.