AFL Victoria has announced a state-wide beyondblue Round, which will be tied in with Hawthorn’s beyondblue Cup in Round 8.

Footballers from junior leagues all the way through to VFL will participate in the themed round, as AFL Victoria looks to continue Hawthorn’s efforts in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues in Australia.

Attending the AFL Vic Season Launch today, Mental Health Ambassador Taylor Duryea says he is pleased that beyondblue’s message is gaining momentum. 

“Sport allows a message to be broadcast and spread, and the fact that [beyondblue Round] will be across the whole of Victoria in the same round that we promote it is going to be really powerful in spreading the message about mental health issues,” Duryea said.

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The Hawks will kick off the beyondblue Round against Sydney on the 11^th of May, with footballers across Victoria following suit over the following three days.

Hawthorn’s VFLW side was also represented at the AFL Vic season launch, as they prepare to kick off their 2018 season on the 5^th of May.