The Tackle Your Feelings program partnered with the Murrumbidgee Council last month to deliver the program in the Riverina region of south-western NSW.
The Murrumbidgee area, which has suffered significantly due to drought in recent years, is driven by the importance of local football in the region.
Murrumbidgee council drought support officer Samantha Star said it was critical for programs to be able to visit regional towns facing mental health challenges as a result of hardships.
“Country people tend not to talk in detail about (mental health) so to have Tackle Your Feelings be able to come and visit is just fantastic,” she told the Tackle Your Feelings program.
The program spent two days in the council region, delivering Auskick sessions in conjunction with AFL Riverina and the face-to-face program to Jerilderie Football Club and Coleambally Football Club.
Jerilderie Football Club president Dean Knight had no hesitations in enrolling his club in the program.
“People who have grown up here live and breathe football. It’s a big part of our town and I thought it was a great opportunity for our club to bring awareness,” he said.
Tackle Your Feelings is a training program designed for local footy clubs to help improve understanding and awareness of mental health as well as build skills within community coaches to foster an environment where athletes are supported to effectively manage their emotions.
Need Support? If you know someone who requires urgent assistance or support, please contact:
Suicide call back service: 1300 659 467
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
Emergency: 000
Support for AFL Players: If you are a current or past AFL Player and would like to know more about our specialised wellbeing and mental health services please contact the AFL Players’ Association at wellbeing@aflplayers.com.au or Tel. 03-8651 4300 (Mon to Fri, 9am – 5pm).
Click here to read our disclaimer.