Malton Old Boys FC Tackle Mental Health Through Football

On an unseasonably warm Saturday in September, the sounds of laughter and competitive banter echoed through the Malton Community Sports Centre. Ten teams gathered, donning their brightly colored jerseys, ready to embrace the spirit of the game. Yet, beneath the excitement lay a poignant mission: to raise awareness of suicide and mental health support through a seven-aside football tournament. Sponsored by the Malton Old Boys FC (MOB), the event aimed not only to foster camaraderie but also to lend a voice to a silent epidemic—men’s mental health.

Raising Awareness for a Critical Cause

The tournament was a labor of love for Steve Mason, the event’s organizer and a proud member of the MOB. “This is an issue close to mine, and many other, hearts after it impacted my life a few years ago, when a very dear friend of decades tragically took his life,” Steve said, his voice laden with emotion. “We still don’t know why, and to this day, all around him wish we were better informed about the issue.” His words resonate deeply in a community where, according to a recent study by the UK Office for National Statistics, suicide remains the leading cause of death among men under 50—75% of cases involving men.

Community Engagement

In its eleventh year, Malton Old Boys FC has consistently focused on various charitable causes, with a special emphasis this year on men’s mental health. Each player’s jersey featured a logo for Andy’s Man Club, an initiative dedicated to creating a safe space for men to discuss their challenges. “Even if we only reach one person in the group, then we have succeeded,” Steve remarked. “A couple of players have reached out since thanking us for raising this issue that has touched their personal lives.”

• 75%: Percentage of suicides in the UK that involve men.
• 1 in 5: Men in the UK who experience suicidal thoughts at some point.
• 11: Years since the MOB was founded, continuing its charitable focus.

Creating Safe Spaces through Sports

True to its name, Malton Old Boys FC champions an inclusive culture where sports serve as a bridge for mental well-being. Their philosophy promotes not only athleticism but also the idea of community support. On Sundays, the team lines up 30 matches against like-minded veterans’ teams, reinforcing bonds through the sport while creating an environment where mental health can be openly discussed.

“Our mission is simple,” Steve added. “We want to give opportunity for people to play football through their life in a format that is friendly, less competitive, and inclusive.” Indeed, the essence of the tournament was not only about winning trophies but also about building relationships grounded in mutual respect and understanding.

Expert Insights on Mental Health Conversations

Leisa Burniston, Manager at Next Steps in Norton, echoed Steve’s sentiments, emphasizing the critical need for open conversations about mental health. “This initiative serves as a powerful platform to bring men together and foster open discussions about suicide, a topic that often remains shrouded in stigma,” she stated. Leisa highlighted a recent report by the Mental Health Foundation, which found that 64% of men feel uncomfortable discussing their mental health. “It’s imperative for men to feel comfortable speaking openly and honestly about their struggles, as this is key to accessing the necessary support,” she asserted.

A Day Full of Reflection and Celebration

As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the pitch, the participants gathered to announce the champion—a fitting farewell to a day rich in purpose and togetherness. “Congratulations to Tollerton for taking home the trophy today,” Steve said with a spirit of camaraderie. The cheers of the crowd resonated, but the significance of the day transcended victories on the field. This event represented a determined stand against the stigma surrounding mental health, a personal commitment by those involved to champion a cause that too many suffer in silence.

In reflecting on the day, it’s evident that such initiatives are vital for communities. They provide not merely a platform for sports but a necessary discussion about mental wellness—something that lives far beyond the confines of a football pitch. As Steve underscored, “We’ve only scratched the surface in terms of awareness, but every small step counts.”

As the crowd dispersed and the sun dipped below the horizon, the calling to combat mental health stigma glimmered as brightly as the fading light. If nothing else, the Malton Old Boys FC tournament exemplifies how community, laughter, and a game can coalesce into a powerful movement for change.

Source: www.yorkpress.co.uk