Newcastle Knights players have raised awareness for mental health with a win in an inter-sports challenge at the Samaritans Movin' the Mood event last year.
Nine Newcastle Knights NYC representatives attended the James Fletcher Hospital late last year to support Movin’ the Mood, an event held in Newcastle to celebrate Mental Health Week.
The carnival was a collaboration of sporting clubs, and mental health services and provided a forum for the stories of people who have undergone a journey with mental health challenges in their life to be told.
The inaugural Movin' the Mood Cup 2013 was won by the Knights with a dazzling display of various sporting skills in a round robin of rugby league, union, soccer and netball against other teams.
The Samaritans presented Newcastle Knights CEO, Matt Gidley with the tournament trophy at Knights headquarters at Wests Mayfield on Friday.
The Samaritans thanked the Club for its involvement and praised the players who took part.
“The team work and the collaboration of skills the Knights displayed reflected the qualities and attributes that individuals and communities could emulate to enhance good mental health and reduce the stigma, so often associated with these illnesses,” Acting manager of Samaritans client services, Mark Addison said.
“Their skills, collaboration and common purpose are what anyone needs to have in their life to enjoy mental health.
“Mental health is about lifestyle and being connected to other people, and a team that functions well is showing all of those attributes," he added.
Knight’s People and Culture manager, Phillip Matthews said the Knights is committed to spreading the message of positive mental health and supporting its players and staff.
“It’s part of a total health and well-being program. We also have junior coaches undergo mental health accreditation as part of this commitment,” Phillip said.
For information on Mental Health Support at the Samaritans - please phone 1300 656 336 or email supportadvisor@samaritans.org.au.
