AFL NSW/ACT asks leagues R U OK? this August
hello • 22 July 2019
| R U OK? is delighted to welcome the support of AFL NSW/ACT for an inaugural R U OK? round. |
| To be played on 03-04 August by AFL NSW/ACT’s 14 managed leagues in New South Wales and ACT, the round is across the state and territory is a first for AFL NSW/ACT running a simultaneous initiative across all leagues in one weekend. Former Sydney Swans player Tom Derickx has welcomed the partnership and hopes it will inspire and empower the AFL community to meaningfully connect with people around them. Having made the successful transition from professional AFL player to musician, now vocalist and guitarist of his band KAYEX, Tom has seen the pressures faced by colleagues across a variety of sectors and knows life’s ups and downs do not discriminate. “I want the AFL community not be afraid or embarrassed to reach out and start the conversation with someone they feel might be struggling with life, there is no shame in asking for health.” said Derickx. “I believe vulnerability is a huge sign of strength and partnerships such as this offer a real opportunity to break down the stigma associated with how we talk about life’s ups and downs.” AFL NSW/ACT CEO Sam Graham said the leagues are excited to show a united front in relation to the conversation around positive peer support. “We are excited to have R U OK? on board as our mental health partner and are looking forward to R U OK? Round in early August,” said Graham. “The R U OK? Round looks to encourage clubs around the state and territory to get involved in the conversation surrounding mental health. “Our leagues and clubs provide great environments and supportive frameworks, where mateship and loyalty are at the core of our game. “The R U OK? Round will open even more avenues for awareness for mental health, and challenge everyone within our game to make sure that they ask that important question – are you ok?” CEO of R U OK? Katherine Newton said she is also looking forward to raising awareness of across the 14 leagues. "We're thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with AFL NSW/ACT and spread the R U OK? message through its vibrant community," Newton said "We know that both playing in a team and supporting a team can provide a sense of belonging. Not only for those playing but also for those in non-playing roles. "We want AFL NSW/ACT staff, players and fans to look out for each other on and off the field and trust their gut when they notice the signs that someone might be struggling with life." R U OK? and AFL NSW/ACT are encouraging all participants and clubs to get involved in supporting R U OK? round this coming August. Find out more on the AFL NSW/ACT website at: http://aflnswact.com.au/r-u-ok-round-announcement/ |
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