Rockingham Rugby Union Club recently used the power of community rugby to encourage important conversations around mental health, with a club-led initiative raising awareness and funds through the Beyond Blue Mental Health Match campaign.
Driven by Senior Men’s Team Manager and Under 8s Coach Nathan Gould, the initiative saw Rockingham take the field in specially designed jerseys during their recent fixture against Nedlands, with players, supporters and volunteers from both clubs getting behind the cause.
For Nathan, creating opportunities for people to connect and support one another is at the heart of what community sport is all about.
"Mental health is not just about crisis," he said.
"It's about community. It's about family. It's about friendship. It's about knowing that when life gets hard, there are people willing to sit beside you rather than judge you."
Choosing to sponsor the jerseys and raise funds through the Beyond Blue initiative, Nathan hoped the match would encourage people to check in on one another and help normalise conversations around mental health.
"While we often pride ourselves on being a club built on toughness and resilience, we must also recognise that true strength is found in compassion, understanding and support for one another," he said.
"Mental health awareness is not about wearing a special jersey for one weekend each year. It is about the culture we create every day. It is about how we speak to each other, how we support each other during difficult times, and whether people feel safe asking for help when they need it most."
The initiative received fantastic support from both Rockingham and Nedlands, demonstrating the positive impact rugby clubs can have beyond the game itself.
Whether its teammates checking in after training, volunteers creating welcoming environments, coaches supporting players, or players cheering from the sidelines, rugby clubs often become extended families for the people within them.
"If this jersey, this round, or a simple conversation helps even one person feel less alone, then it has been worthwhile," Nathan said.
Those wishing to support the initiative and contribute to the Beyond Blue Mental Health Match fundraising efforts can do so via Rockingham Rugby Union Club's campaign page.
RugbyWA would also like to reinforce its commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of the rugby community through the Live Well program, proudly supported by Healthway. Live Well provides clubs with practical tools, resources and support to create healthy, inclusive and connected environments, helping players, coaches, volunteers and supporters thrive both on and off the field. To learn more and access resources for your club, visit the Live Well Hub.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. RugbyWA's Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub provides a range of resources for players, coaches, volunteers, referees, spectators and club members, including mental health toolkits and support services.
For immediate assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for free 24/7 crisis support and counselling.
