Mind Your Mates Training for Gippsland Sporting Clubs
Sporting clubs are more than just a place to train and compete. They are community hubs where friendships are formed, support networks are built and people look out for each other.
That is why GippSport is partnering with Lifeline Gippsland to deliver Mind Your Mates training to local sporting clubs across Gippsland.
What is Mind Your Mates?
Mind Your Mates is practical training focused on how to start a conversation with someone you are worried about, beginning with a simple but powerful question: R U OK?
We recognise that it can feel uncomfortable or overwhelming to check in with someone about their mental health. It can be even harder to know what to say if the answer is “no”.
This session provides clear, practical tools to help club members feel confident in:
- Starting and continuing meaningful conversations
- Allowing others to explore their thoughts and feelings
- Creating space for new perspectives
- Recognising the signs that someone may be struggling
- Trusting your instincts when something does not feel right
- Asking directly about suicidal thoughts
- Looking after your own wellbeing while supporting others
By listening, talking openly and following up, we help people feel heard, supported, connected and hopeful. Someone who is finding it tough is far more likely to seek help if someone they trust suggests it.
Why This Training Matters for Clubs
Sporting clubs are built on connection, trust and community. When members feel supported off the field, it strengthens everything that happens on it.
Mental health conversations do not always feel easy, but they are important. Mind Your Mates gives your club the confidence and practical tools to make checking in part of your everyday culture.
Through this training, your club can:
- Strengthen leadership and communication skills
- Create an environment where members feel safe to speak up
- Equip coaches, volunteers and players with practical conversation tools
- Demonstrate a genuine commitment to member wellbeing
Mental health awareness is not just a themed round or a one-off initiative. It is about embedding care and connection into the way your club operates.
Register Your Interest
If your Gippsland sporting club would like to host a Mind Your Mates session, GippSport would love to support you.
