Goal for new dads is to cast off baby blues

Becoming a dad can be one of life’s joys. But it can bring stress and great change. And 10% of men suffer postnatal depression.

Many feel there’s little support available and they just have to “man up”.

Realising just how tough it can be, a group of men launched Team Kickabout to help dads in Aberdeen – and more than 500 men have joined since October.

Danny McNolty, a founder, said the men play five-a-side at Goals in Aberdeen on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

Having a laugh helps but they also give each other support and advice about fatherhood.

“I’ve got a five-year-old daughter, she’s my first and I had never really been around kids,” he says.

He said hearing stories from other dads about their children’s development can help men relax about their own child’s progress.

“It could be a case of my kid is not doing that yet but neither is yours so that’s fine,” he said.

“It’s a bit of reassurance without even having to ask anyone questions.”

The organisers are also around to help.

“We’ve given out our mobile phone numbers, or they will message us on Facebook,” Danny says.

“If someone lets us know they’re feeling a bit low that day we’ll have a chat.

“Or one of the other captains will give them a video call and they can have a laugh.”

Team Kickabout was launched by Graham Sims in Preston after his own child was born.

His brother Dave, of Aberdeen, started up in the north-east last year.

It’s a non-competitive group although the lads have started playing others in 11-aside games.

Last month they travelled to Kirkcaldy to play a senior Raith Rovers team and have a game planned with Forfar in November.

The group is open to anyone who is a dad, carer or legal guardian, of any age or ability.

A donation is asked for but it’s hoped the project will attract funding.

The first game is free and the group also hopes to attract Ukrainian dads to help them get to know people in the community.

Danny, 30, said some dads had never played and were just looking to get out the house.

Studies have shown exercise can boost self-esteem.

“It’s non-competitive – we don’t keep scores, there’s no sliding tackles, no elbows,” Danny says. “It’s fun and friendly.

“It breaks up your week and a great bunch of lads.”

TEAM TALK: From left, Danny McNolty, Paul Simpson, David Sims, Barry Ross and Warren Johnstone of Team Kickabout. Picture by Kenny Elrick