One punch. That’s all it takes to change lives forever.

On Friday night, Carlton and Hawthorn players will unite in a stand against street violence, in their round 12 clash at Etihad Stadium.

Players from both teams will wear orange bootlaces, in support of Step Back Think.

Step Back Think is a not-for-profit organisation, which aims to raise awareness of street violence. Carlton’s Luke Mitchell is a strong supporter of their campaign, having experienced the effects of violence first-hand, when his older brother was attacked outside a bar in 2008.

“David wasn’t expected to make it through the night, but fought against the odds to survive the attack, and has been able to piece his life back together slowly,” Mitchell said.

“While having to re-learn tasks such as tying your own shoelaces might not sound like a lucky break, other victims of street violence never get that chance.”

The latest crime figures released by Victoria Police show the rate of street violence is increasing, with assaults up 11.9% on the same time last year.

Step Back Think’s Chief Executive Sophie Rowe says it’s concerning that cases of street violence continue to increase in senseless numbers.

“It is so important that we bring home awareness of the consequences of street violence, so that young people are better equipped to tackle the issue,” Ms Rowe said.

“There are not only life-long implications for the person who has been assaulted and their family and friends, but also very serious ramifications for the offender. We want young people to ask themselves: is one punch worth it?”

Fans can also take a stand against street violence this weekend. Some 8,000 pairs of orange laces will be distributed free with the AFL Record, as part of the “Lace Up” campaign.

Meanwhile on Saturday, more than 20,000 orange shoelaces will be donned by players from more than 400 football teams across Victoria, as footballers stand together and urge others to Step Back, Think.