NJSIAA launches 2023 “Be a Winner Behind the Wheel” campaign
Messaging benefits first-time, teen drivers
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (Dec. 7, 2023) – For the third consecutive year, the NJSIAA (New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association) is partnering with the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety on the “Be a Winner Behind the Wheel” campaign. This co-branded platform provides safe driving messaging to teens, their families, and the at-large community.
Details on the program, which debuted in 2021, are communicated during NJSIAA championship sporting events through traditional media as well as interactive promotions. Content is also shared via social media channels, as well as print and digital newsletters.
“In the spirit of collaboration, we are excited to renew our partnership with the NJSIAA, recognizing that this joint effort will play a pivotal role in mitigating tragic injuries or fatalities among young drivers,” said Michael J. Rizol, Jr., Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety. “Together, we strive to create a safer and more responsible driving culture for all of New Jersey’s road users.”
Colleen Maguire, NJSIAA’s Executive Director, notes: “We are thrilled to welcome back the ‘Be a Winner Behind the Wheel’ campaign for a third year, after two highly successful programs during 2021 and 2022. The NJSIAA looks forward to once again utilizing its unique platforms to provide invaluable safe driving information to student-athletes across the state.”
There are five key areas of focus for keeping new drivers safe on New Jersey’s roadways. Emphasized in “Be a Winner Behind the Wheel,” these are:
- Prevention of impaired driving
- The components of the state’s Graduated Driver License, via the “Stick to It” campaign
- Dangers of speeding
- Risk of distracted driving, via the related “Take Control of Your Destiny” campaign
- Seat belt awareness
The need to share this information with young drivers is highlighted by motor vehicle crashes being the leading cause of death for 15- to 18-years-olds in the United States. During 2019 (the most recent year for which statistics are available), 2,042 people in the U.S. were killed in traffic accidents involving a teen driver. Of these, 628 of the fatalities were the teen driver.
About NJSIAA
Established in 1918, the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) is a voluntary, non-profit organization of approximately 435 accredited public and non-public high schools. A member of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), the NJSIAA conducts tournaments and crowns champions in 33 sports.
