The role that sport and physical activity can play in promoting mental health will be highlighted at a forthcoming Sport Aiding Mental Health National Conference to be held in Jacksons Hotel, Ballybofey on Friday next 31st May.
Among the presentation on the day will be the launch of a charter to support sport clubs in promoting positive mental wellbeing and to create a club environment that focuses on encouraging effort and learning and inspiring young people to be the best that they can be in sport and in life.
This resource which has been designed and developed by Donegal Sports Partnership encourages clubs in understanding the importance of effort rather than the win at all costs attitude, it will also give some important advice around inclusion, support, communication and enjoyment in sport.
Myles Sweeney, Coordinator of Donegal Sports Partnership stated that taking part i sport is not all about winning.
“Sport is a powerful resource in all communities and can contribute hugely to creating a positive environment for everyone to enjoy, however at times the win at all costs and poor sportsmanship can take away from young people and adults enjoying sports applying unrealistic challenges and pressures.
“We hope that the Charter for Promoting Positive Mental Wellbeing will support sports leaders, parents, coaches, volunteers and athletes and help create a culture of positivity within their sporting community which will encourage and inspire young people into the future”
Mayor of Donegal Frank Mc Brearty said he was fully supportive of the Charter and encouraged sports clubs to come along to the Sport Aiding Mental Health Conference in Ballybofey.
He said that Sports Leaders play an important role in supporting the development of our young people and sometimes they underestimate the influence that they have when working with young people in a sporting context.
Danny Ryan former Irish boxing champion who will officially launch the Charter for Promoting Positive Mental Wellbeing through Sport said he was delighted to be associated with the new club resource; he encouraged all clubs to promote the key messages of the charter in order eliminate the negative issues which can occur in sport for young people.
Further information on the Charter for Promoting Positive Wellbeing through Sport are available through Donegal Sports Partnership – 074 9116078 / 9116079 or email info@activedonegal.com