This coming Saturday will be our annual "Face Off For Mental Health" day.
For folks who are new to our Association, we have been participating in FOFMH for over a decade. Local statistics indicate 1 in 5 children and youth struggle with their mental health...we believe that to be a conservative estimate as many struggle silently due to the stigma associated with seeking support. One in five equates to one player on every line and 3 or more players on each team...let's normalize checking on our friends and teammates and acknowledging that mental health is heath...being mentally well is as important as being physically well and role modelling vulnerability is powerful!
We will be offering players green tape to tape their sticks green, Jayla Callahan has been busy making green ribbons for players and coaches' jackets and we will have a mental health resource table at the rink!
Coaches are encouraged to touch upon mental wellness and the rink being a safe place with trusted adults who can offer encouragement and point you in the right direction if you need further support.
Fans and players are encouraged to wear green, make posters and team reels with supportive messaging. Lambton Shores and Mooretown will be following our lead, so let's show them how it's done!
#itsoktotalkyoureablackhawk
#oneinfive