Mental health Demons claim national award

The efforts of the North Hobart Football Club (NHFC) to prioritise the wellbeing of its players and staff by promoting positive mental health practices and the strength of community has been nationally recognised at the annual Good Sports Awards.   

The Good Sports Awards acknowledge strong clubs and dedicated people who are passionate about the community and supporting individuals live healthy, happy lives.  

Club president David Kilpatrick said being part of an ongoing Good Sports program had greatly impacted club culture, helping the club to develop and implement policies that keep it safe and healthy.  

“Since developing a wellbeing action plan three-years-ago, we’ve appointed a dedicated wellbeing officer, given our members access to free professional counselling, mental health first aid and suicide prevention training,” he said. 

“We’ve also established a relationship with a local GP so that players needing access to a mental health plan can quickly see them for a referral. 

“Constant communication about mental health has created an environment where everyone at the club takes responsibility for it and we all look out for each other.” 

Wellbeing officer Rick Tipping said the club had developed a great culture where everyone felt valued and understood the need for effective mental health programs.  

“When I joined NHFC as a volunteer one of the first issues that I could see was the need for more mental health support,” he said.  

“We initially provided support to our players and pretty soon after also extended this to staff and volunteers.  

“Our club and community members now understand the importance of supporting each other with issues surrounding mental health and wellbeing.” 

For more information about the Good Sports Awards visit goodsports.com.au  

The North Hobart Football Club welcomes involvement from its local community. If you are interested in volunteering, sponsoring a player or becoming a corporate partner please contact general manager Paul Curtain by email at gm@nhfc.net.au