Clubs spread message on youth mental health

GEELONG Cougars and Flyers netballers have lent a hand in the community to support an important initiative for youth mental health.

GFL clubs last week took part in the Read the Play round, showcasing an opportunity for their younger players to reinforce the messages learnt during the Read the Play program.

The program, which tackles the prevalent issue of mental illness in youth, targets the under-15 age groups to raise awareness and reduce stigma.

“It’s such an important time for them to get the message around looking after themselves and their wellbeing and their mental health,” Read the Play man- ager Michael Parker said. “Seventy-five per cent of all adult mental health issues start when they are actually a teenager, so it’s really important that these guys get the message then instead of leaving it too late.”

Using blue netballs, players sparked conversation far and wide throughout the club and wider community with this initiative.

Those players who demonstrated the key message “speak up, speak out and protect” were awarded the game ball.

Parker said that out on the court this included looking after their mates, speaking up and supporting their friends.

Geelong Cougars and Flyers netballers got involved with the presentations, demonstrating the community support behind this significant cause.

Parker said it was important to have role models like this for the younger players.

“They’re 13, 14-year-olds, they look up to these players.”

The Read the Play Program has been running in the Geelong area for 12 years and operates sessions in sporting clubs around Victoria and New South Wales.