KEEPING up the conversation around mental health – on and off the field – is the goal of a program coming to the Swan Hill region.
Ahead of the Game is a mental health literacy and resilience program starting in community football clubs this year.
It aims to educate players and umpires aged 12 to 18 and their support networks of parents, coaches and club volunteers.
The AFL and headspace Swan Hill have teamed up for the Movember initiative.
headspace Swan Hill community engagement officer Kat Hindle said they were joining 15 other community organisations across the country to facilitate AOTG’s interactive workshops to teams before, after or during training.
“Young people in the football community have each other’s backs on the field, but may not have developed the skills to support each other off the field,” Ms Hindle told The Guardian.
“AOTG provides young people with important tools to deal with life’s challenges and the confidence to support their mates through tough times, whilst also empowering them to look after their own mental wellbeing.”
The partnership follows the success of this year’s headspace Round in the Golden Rivers, Central Murray and North Central football netball leagues.
“Teammates matter is the message we have been sharing for headspace Round,” Ms Hindle said.
“The AOTG program aligns with this message and provides vital tools for players to be able to support each other and continue important conversations off the field.”
AFL head of mental health and wellbeing Kate Hall said grassroots football clubs provided a place for connection and belonging for young people.
“The AFL and Movember believe footy is a way for young Australians to learn crucial mental skills that build resilience in football and life,” Dr Hall said.
“These skills include appreciating your team and helping out a mate.
“We want to harness the power of our great game to help players, coaches, parents and volunteers to understand mental health, build mental fitness and strengthen the resilience across the country, so that we can build communities that are mentally fit and capable to handle any challenge that comes their way.”
The AOTG program will be delivered in stages over a three-year partnership.
Community football clubs can register their expression of interest for the first year of the AOTG program at www.play.afl/aotg
