Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 13, 2024 6:20 pm GMT
Drogheda United is set to shine a spotlight on mental health awareness during their upcoming match against Derry City FC on Friday, September 27th. As part of a fan-led initiative, the club will adopt a green theme to promote resources and support for those battling mental health challenges, aligning with their ongoing commitment to the community.
Going Green for Mental Health Awareness
Drogheda United’s decision to “go green” reflects a significant push for mental health awareness in the community. The campaign is part of a wider series of events organized by the Policing and Drugs Subgroup of the Drogheda Implementation Board, which includes members from An Garda Síochána and HSE Mental Health Services.
Club Chairperson Joanna Byrne expressed her pride in the efforts of the fans and the Drogheda community at large, stating, “Sadly, we are at a crisis point in our society where suicide and battles with mental health have darkened all of our doors in some way. I couldn’t be prouder of our fans, and The F45U in particular for their work on this campaign.”
What to Expect at the Match
On match day, fans can look forward to various activities aimed at raising awareness. Here’s what will take place:
- Distribution of Green Ribbons to promote the Sea Change Green Ribbon Campaign.
- Posters and information cards outlining mental health resources will be provided to attendees.
- Both Drogheda and Derry City teams will warm up in green t-shirts featuring the hashtag #EndTheStigma.
- An eye-catching TIFO Display will be unveiled before kickoff to reinforce the campaign’s messaging.
Byrne emphasized the importance of community collaboration, saying, “Collaborative projects between the fans and the Gardai also go a long way in breaking down barriers between youngsters and the guards, which in itself is exceptionally worthwhile.”
Support from the Fans and Local Authorities
The Drogheda United fans, specifically the supporters group known as “The Famous 45 Ultras” (F45U), have taken the lead in organizing this campaign. Members of the group, including Dean O’Reilly, Nathan O’Connor, and Kieran Lyons, have been instrumental in driving this initiative forward.
During the lead-up to the match, the F45U has worked hard to ensure that Drogheda has a significant presence in the mental health conversation. “It’s always been said that there’s great potential for our club and the fans to collectively make a difference in our communities,” Byrne added.
Drogheda United’s stadium, previously named “Head In The Game Park,” has long been associated with promoting mental health awareness among fans and participants, echoing the sentiments of the campaign. This ongoing commitment demonstrates the club’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment both on and off the field.
Highlights from Recent Matches
In addition to the awareness campaign, Drogheda United is riding a wave of momentum following a recent victory against Bohemians. The match, held at Dalymount Park, marked a crucial win for the club, elevating their hopes of avoiding relegation in this season’s Premier Division.
- Key Match Highlights:
– Drogheda United secured a narrow 1-0 victory.
– Frantz Pierrot scored the only goal of the match.
– The team’s solid defense held strong against a second-half assault from Bohemians.
Club Manager Kevin Doherty praised his team’s resilience, highlighting the significant implications of the match results for both Drogheda United and Bohemians in the league standings.
A Community Coming Together
The Drogheda community’s response to this initiative reflects a broader awareness of mental health issues present in society. The upcoming match will not only serve as a platform to celebrate the sport but also as a vital opportunity to advocate for mental health resources and encourage open conversations.
By wearing green, attendees will visibly demonstrate their support for mental health awareness, contributing to a united front against the stigma that often surrounds such discussions. As Joanna Byrne aptly put it, “We’re asking all of our fans attending to wear something Green, and I’ve no doubt the fans will rally behind the group.”
Conclusion
As Drogheda United prepares for their significant match against Derry City FC, it is clear that this event represents much more than just football. It embodies a powerful push toward promoting mental health awareness, fostering community support, and breaking the stigma associated with mental health challenges.
Thanks to the hard work of the club, its excited fans, and local leaders, Drogheda is ready to make a big difference this Friday, both in the game and in the community. The message is simple: Stand up, speak out, and help #EndTheStigma.
