Daniel Mchardy Afternoons

Sport and Recreation Minister Grant Robertson is championing participation and inclusion as part of the coalition government's plans to change the sporting landscape.Robertson spoke to NZME about his desire to get a better deal for those - such as women and people from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds - who can be marginalised.As a gay man who played rugby at community level, Robertson was encouraged by the public's reaction to Instagram comments from Wallabies fullback Israel Folau that homosexuals will go to hell "unless they repent of their sins and turn to God".All Blacks Brad Weber and TJ Perenara condemned the comments in April."I give credit to Brad and TJ," Robertson said."From those negative comments I think, at least in New Zealand, a more inclusive approach has emerged."Robertson also acknowledged sports clubs can galvanise communities because of the relationships they forge when people commit to exercise."We all know there have been drop off rates. Clubs struggle to get people to join but,