Rugby League, Bullying & Mental Health - Seems like a weird trifecta? Not really! Statistics are showing that large numbers of young people are withdrawing from team sports and isolating themselves due to the negative effects that bullying - particular over social media is having on their Mental Health.
Sport and the inclusive environment of sporting clubs used to be a safe haven for kids and teenagers - a place were they could meet new friends, forge life skills around leadership and team work and gain a sense of belonging that only standing beside 12 of your team mates come kick off time can deliver.
Social Media has now created an avenue for bullying and bullies to be able to access their victims 24/7 and this is having a devastating impact on the Mental Health and Wellbeing of adolescents as they seek to isolate themselves away from the torment and angst that bullying creates, including withdrawing from team sports in large numbers.
The Kurnell Stingrays Junior Rugby League Football Club located in the Sutherland Shire, Sydney might be small in numbers but they make up for that in spades when it comes to the powerful stance they are taking against bullying and the negative use of social media amongst junior players and the impacts that this has on Mental Health and Suicidality amongst the 12-17 age group.
The Stingrays are courageously leading the way in the fight to promote anti-bullying messages and place the importance of mental wellness amongst their players above all else - trust me, if you are thinking about getting your kids involved with footy then this is the club you want them involved with - fantastic role models, beautiful community and a an environment that is genuinely inclusive of players from all skill levels and cultural backgrounds.
It is my pleasure to be involved with the Stingrays as a Parent, as a Coach and now as a Partner in delivering a series of workshops aimed at educating players, parents and community around the dangers of bullying, social media toxicity and understanding the impacts of these areas on Mental Health and Wellbeing.
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