Carling Black Label has added another cap in its partnership with domestic football with the launch of the #noexcuse jersey to combat women abuse.
The #NoExcuse jersey, designed by Kasi Flavour 10, is not for sale and can only be earned by real sportsmen and everyday men who have united and taken a pledge to stand united against gender-based violence.
At the forefront of the campaign is the quartet of Steve Komphela, Bernard Parker, Happy Jele, and Linda Mntambo.
"An official South African Premier Soccer League jersey, the kit is only available to fans who take the Champion for Change course; an online programme (noexcusesa.com) that focuses on transforming, equipping and inspiring men to use their strength to love, serve, protect and provide.
"Another unique feature of the jersey and a part of the pledge is the back of the football jersey, made up of signatures of men who completed the course and have taken a pledge to unite, and not abuse women.
"For the lookbook, the same men who have completed the course and real national premier league soccer players who have done the same were used to model the jerseys instead of models or influencers adding to the authenticity and sincerity of the cause whilst making a real impact in the local football culture.
"438 540 individuals have completed the Champion for Change course, and many more jerseys with men's signatures are being manufactured to build the movement.
"Over the years, Carling Black Label has been at the forefront of impactful campaigns, contributing significantly to the nationwide conversation on GBV.
"These initiatives underscore the brand's dedication to leveraging its influence for positive change and form a crucial part of Carling Black Label's long-term strategy in combating GBV.
"This commitment is evident through various on-the-ground activations and programmes conducted in collaboration with Father-A-Nation and Lifeline," reads the statement from the organisers.
For audiences and viewers at home, squeeze backs communicated the message, the Real Injury Time Stops Now, also driving fans to the helpline. At the stadium, LED parameter boards and score screens changed to reflect the same message. The commentator also spoke about the Real Injury Time Stops Now campaign advising fans in the stadium to reach out before they lash out too.
To amplify the campaign and highlight the cause further, the #NoExcuse Jersey was also launched at the annual Carling Cup 2024 and worn by both South African Premier Soccer League teams with the aim to unite players, fans and men to stand up against abuse.