Ahead of the Game facilitators Iggy Clarke, Saoirse McCarthy, Domhnall Nugent, and Mary Kate Lynch pictured at Croke Park. Photo by David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
The GAA, GPA and Movember are calling on GAA clubs across Ireland to take part in the transformative Movember "Ahead of the Game" mental health literacy programme.
About the Movember "Ahead of the Game" Programme
Movember “Ahead of the Game” is an evidence-based youth sport mental health literacy programme having been first developed in The University of Wollongong in Australia. Movember “Ahead of the Game” includes content on how to recognise mental health disorders, what to do and when to get help. The workshops highlight the importance of building mental fitness to deal with the challenges life and sport can throw at anyone. The programme is delivered in GAA clubs all over Ireland and involves two workshops, one for male or female U14/15 teams and one for parents and coaches in the clubs. Since it kicked off just seven months ago, 176 clubs across the 32 counties of Ireland have taken part in Phase 1 of MAOTG, with at least 1 club in every county receiving a workshop. The initiative has engaged 2,729 young male and female members, as well as 1,863 parents and club coaches.
MAOTG has already had a positive influence on participants:
- 91% have said they have a better understanding of the importance of being mentally fit and healthy.
- 94% have said they now know who to talk to and where to go for mental help support for themselves and for others.
- 91% have said that after the session they felt more assured in recognising the signs of poor mental health in themselves.
- 93% have saying they feel more confident recognising the signs of poor mental health in others too.
- 93% of player participants also said they now had confidence to talk with a friend going through a tough time with their mental health after taking part in**.**
Why Get Involved?
Mental health is a critical issue that affects everyone, regardless of age or athletic ability. By participating in Movember "Ahead of the Game," GAA clubs will play a vital role in supporting their members' mental well-being and setting a positive example within their communities. This initiative offers an invaluable opportunity to create a supportive environment where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized.
What’s Involved?
There is no cost to participate in this ground-breaking new initiative run by the GAA, GPA and Movember.
The timeline for delivery of Phase 2 is from September 2024 to April 2025.
The workshops will be delivered to an U14/U15 boys or girl’s teams. Workshops cannot be mixed gender e.g. either all girls or all boys per player workshop.
Movember “Ahead of the Game” includes a 1-hour workshop for the players on the U14/U15 team, and a 1-hour workshop for parents, coaches and volunteers.
The 32 facilitators of the programme are current and past inter county players which include Galway All- Ireland winner Iggy Clarke, Cork All Ireland Camogie winner Saoirse McCarthy, and Antrim Hurler Paddy Burke to name a few.
GAA clubs interested in participating in the "Ahead of the Game" programme phase 2 are encouraged to apply using this LINK or the link below and here you will also find further information.
Selection will be based on the club’s commitment and their ability to implement the programme effectively.
The GAA, GPA and Movember have a shared vision of creating healthier, more resilient communities. By joining forces for the "Ahead of the Game" programme, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of young athletes and their families.