Hawthorn will continue its long-standing tradition this Sunday when the team takes on the Demons for the annual Beyond Blue Cup.
Sunday’s game marks the 16th consecutive year that Hawthorn has contested the cup, bringing the marquee match back to the MCG following last year’s event at Adelaide Oval.
The Beyond Blue Cup seeks to shine a light on mental health, encouraging meaningful and open conversations that aim to support and maintain positive wellbeing, as well as reduce the stigma attached to mental health issues.
This year’s match asks the football community to make a commitment to ‘play your role’ to support family, friends, and teammates each and every day.
Everyone can play their role both on-and-off field simply by making an effort to look, ask, listen and support those around you; whether it be noticing changes in one’s behaviour, dedicating time to listen and show care to others, or purely asking an individual how they are.
Hawthorn Football Club CEO Justin Reeves highlighted the importance of the club’s partnership with Beyond Blue and the necessity to focus on achieving good wellbeing.
“Hawthorn is proud to once again host the Beyond Blue Cup, playing a valuable role in advocating the importance of creating conversations and remembering to reach out and offer support to those around you” said Reeves.
“Following a year that placed significant challenges on every individual’s physical and mental wellbeing, this year’s Beyond Blue Cup further highlights the importance of prioritising our mental health and implementing small yet significant strategies to ensure even the hardest of days are easier to tackle.
“There are lots of simple ways we can all play our role and make a difference to those around us.”
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman said the community partnership with the Hawks continues to spark important conversations as people reconnect with one another face to face.
“Now we’re able to gather with friends again to barrack for our team and share in the spectacle of a live match, let’s remember to check in and continue the conversation,” Ms Harman said.
“Sports like AFL offer a great platform to connect and support others on-and-off the field, to make mental health a part of everyday conversations, to smash stigma and encourage support-seeking.
“I want to thank the Hawthorn Football Club for their unwavering partnership as we work together to support the community.”
Beyond Blue will be at Hawthorn’s Open Training on Saturday 17 April as well as at Sunday’s game with activations and donation collection points set up around the MCG concourse.
Footy fans will be given the chance to “make the commitment” to which role they will play prior to the game by visiting www.beyondblue.org.au/playyourrole and securing their chance to win a Hawthorn guernsey signed by the 2021 playing group.
The Beyond Blue Support Service is available via phone 24/7 on 1300 22 4636 or via beyondblue.org.au/get-support for online chat (3PM – 12AM AEST or email responses within 24 hours).
The new Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Service is available 24/7 at coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au. Its dedicated phone line, staffed by mental health professionals briefed on the pandemic response, is now open on 1800 512 348.
