Mental health a priority for AFL Riverina

By James Matthey

AFL Riverina is taking its off-field responsibilities just as seriously as its on-field duties, raising funds and awareness for a local mental health organisation.

On Monday, AFL Riverina donated $1500 to not-for-profit organisation Riverina Bluebell, who aim to provide support and services to those suffering from mental illnesses.

Most of the money was raised during matches between Leeton-Whitton and Narrandera, and Marrar and the Northern Jets, during a round in which teams played for the Bluebell Cup.

The Bluebell Cup was an initiative launched four years ago to help use sport as a way of promoting the need to address mental health issues in society, and the Riverina in particular.

Riverina Bluebell President, John Bull, told The Daily Advertiser that a partnership with the AFL was invaluable in helping remove some of the stigma associated with mental health issues.

“Sport is a great leveller,” said Bull.

“Linking mental health messages to sporting endeavours helps to normalise the conversation and remove some of the taboos which have traditionally been associated with mental illness.

“Our exposure in the smaller country towns has been enhanced, the football followers and townspeople recognise the work we are doing and appreciate our involvement to promote positive mental health outcomes.”

AFL Riverina Football Operations Manager, Shane Buchanan, said clubs were more than willing to lend their support to the cause.

“The players enjoy participating in the games and can see the benefit of raising the profile of Riverina Bluebell in their communities,” said Buchanan.

“(They have) of course all experienced the problems associated with depression, suicide and other mental health challenges.”

Wagga City and Orange City also played in a charity rugby union game in April to raise money for Riverina Bluebell.

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