As posted on the Coleraine Chronicle website (link)
HEIGHTS Football Club has successfully hosted ‘Ahead of the Game,’ the Irish FA Foundation’s mental health programme for football clubs.
Alan Steele, the club’s Development Officer said: “First and foremost can I take this opportunity to thank Kenny Greenhill of the Irish Football Association and his team for presenting the programme.
“We would also like to thank the Mayor, Cllr Ivor Wallace, Gareth Scott CC&G Health & Wellbeing and our club sponsor Montra Club for the use of their facilities.
“Everyone in attendance went home with a greater knowledge of awareness going forward.”
The programme aims to support clubs and volunteers when dealing with mental health issues, challenging the stigma around mental health, promoting positive mental health and preventative measures.
Ahead of the Game focuses on the idea and importance of starting the conversation around mental health in football.
The programme is a part of the UEFA Hat Trick funding for football and social responsibility and was developed in partnership with TAMHI (Tackling Awareness of Mental Health Issues), Inspire and Train 2B Smart Soccer.
As part of the programme the Irish FA Foundation and Sports Chaplaincy UK are working in partnership to support mental health throughout Northern Ireland.
Sports Chaplaincy UK work in partnership with sports governing bodies who recognise the need for quality pastoral and spiritual support and provide chaplaincy throughout sport.
Through their partnership with the Irish Football Association they will be providing sports chaplaincy services across the country via the various regional hubs.