Toon soundtrack is Game Changer
THE sounds of matchday in Newcastle, from fans’ banter to the famous Gallowgate roar, are captured on a new recording which aims to soothe the frustrations of supporters stuck in lockdown.
The Newcastle United Foundation has produced a seven-minute compilation which recreates the atmosphere of going to the game for supporters missing their regular dose of
St James’ Park football.
The ‘mindfulness’ recording is best listened to through headphones for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in the experience.
It follows Toon fans’ usual home matchday routine, from catching a Metro with mates to chatter as they pick up a programme and hot pie to taking a seat in the stadium and then hearing the strains of Local Hero before kick-off and the sound of the referee’s whistle blowing and the famous Gallowgate roar.
The charity Foundation’s release is part of its Be A Game Changer mental health awareness campaign. It encourages football supporters to speak openly about their wellbeing.
The soundtrack was recorded during United’s 2019-20 campaign before restrictions prevented fans from attending St James’ and made all games be played behind closed doors. The hope is the sound of recorded chatter and companionship will help to reduce current feelings of loneliness and isolation during the latest lockdown.
The audio track – which can be listened to for free at any time on the Foundation’s YouTube channel – is also more likely to appeal to those who might think the more usual mindfulness tracks are not for them. Ashley Lowe, health and wellbeing manager at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “We asked fans how they felt about meditation and mindfulness, with many saying it did not appeal. However, when we asked if they might be interested if the activity was themed around football we seemed to pique their interest! The campaign is all about encouraging more conversations about mental health between Newcastle fans. However, we know we have to carefully target our messaging to make it effective and relevant. There is one thing our community has in common – football – so the beautiful game has formed the basis of all our campaign communications.”
The campaign is all about encouraging more conversations about mental health between Newcastle fans Ashley Low