In sport, it is often talked about having comradery and connection with your teammates. On the field, players rely on their teammates to ‘play their role’ and offer support, protection and encouragement. Off the field, teammates are just as important. When it comes to your mental health, having a strong network of ‘teammates’ is essential, and playing your role goes a long way towards helping everyone get through the ups and downs of life.
During these uncertain times, having a strong network of teammates is important for mental health now more than ever. At all levels, our sporting community have been turned upside down in 2020, and the ripple effects have been felt through players, coaches, support staff and fans. Outside of the big leagues, many of us are still wondering when we’ll next get to run out on the field or even have a kick in the park with a friend again. During these times we all need a little extra support to help cope with feelings of isolation, stress and uncertainty.
This September, our Beyond Blue Community Partners, the NRL’s Wests Tigers and the AFL’s Hawthorn Football Club are holding their annual Beyond Blue Cups. This year, both clubs want to help Beyond Blue encourage those across sporting communities to think about what role they can play to be there for their family and friends.
Checking in on how someone is doing, being inclusive, asking how they’re going or just ‘being there’ can make a difference in helping someone feel less alone and more supported.
So, how can you play your role and be the best teammate you can be?
A good place to start is to remember these four keywords: look, ask, listen and support.