Rugby is built on connection. Whether as a player, coach, referee, volunteer, parent or supporter, being part of the game brings people together and creates communities where we can support and look out for one another.
Just as we take care of our physical health, looking after our mental health is an important part of overall wellbeing. Talking about how we are feeling, checking in with a teammate or friend, and knowing when to ask for support can all make a meaningful difference.
There are many moments in rugby that can affect how we feel. The disappointment of a tough loss, recovering from injury, missing out on team selection, managing expectations or dealing with challenges away from the game can all have an impact. Sharing those experiences and staying connected to people around us can help us navigate both the highs and lows.
With members’ welfare as a central focus, coaches and volunteers are equipped to deliver activities that boost mental wellbeing and to recognise when someone may need additional support. To assist in this, the IRFU has developed a Toolkit for Clubs, designed to help members understand the impact of rugby-related issues such as injury, pressure to play, unrealistic expectations, or referee abuse.
Clubs also have access to factsheets, posters, and e-learning modules for coaches and volunteers, including one developed in partnership with Jigsaw, the National Youth Mental Health Service.
Resources are available here, training can be accessed by clicking here, and you can also listen to insights from our 2024 player webinar.
Meadhbh Lewis, National Health & Wellbeing Co-ordinator said:
“Rugby is about more than what happens on the pitch. It is about connection, belonging and being there for one another. This World Mental Health Day, we want to remind everyone across our rugby community that looking after our mental health is part of looking after ourselves and each other.