SportWest’s True Sport Mental Health Champions Network reconvened today for its second session, bringing together passionate advocates and professionals committed to improving mental health outcomes for young people in sport.
Held at Bendat Basketball Stadium, the session focused on the vital topic: “Understanding How To Support Youth Mental Health in Sport.” Facilitated by Youth Focus, a leading mental health support organisation, the session explored the unique challenges faced by young athletes and how sporting environments can become safer, more supportive spaces. Attendees gained practical strategies for recognising signs of mental distress, fostering open conversations, and building resilience within teams and clubs.
Over the 90-minute session, attendees engaged in practical discussions and gained access to valuable resources designed for implementation within their clubs. The workshop promoted a proactive approach to mental health, encouraging environments where young sports participants feel safe, supported, and empowered.
The session also provided opportunities for networking, shared learning, and group collaboration. The informal setting fostered open dialogue and the exchange of lived experiences from across Western Australia’s sporting community.
This session provided the opportunity to network with fellow Mental Health Champions, share learnings and facilitated group learning. The informal setting encouraged collaboration and the sharing of lived experiences from across Western Australia’s sporting community.
Why It Matters
Mental health challenges among youth are increasingly prevalent, and community sport plays a powerful role in recognising and responding to these issues. This interactive, in-person workshop was designed to equip coaches, managers, volunteers, and club leaders with the confidence and tools to support young athletes effectively, while leveraging True Sport resources to strengthen their sporting environments.
Workshop Outcomes
Participants left the session empowered with foundational knowledge to:
- Understand the role sport plays in promoting and protecting youth mental health
- Recognise signs of common mental health challenges in young people
- Apply age-appropriate strategies to support youth experiencing mental health concerns
- Identify referral pathways and know when to escalate concerns to professional services
- Contribute to a positive sporting culture that actively promotes wellbeing
SportWest’s True Sport Mental Health & Wellbeing Initiative empowers sporting clubs and organisations to create inclusive, supportive environments that prioritise mental wellbeing and help break down stigma surrounding mental health.
📩 Want to get involved?
To become a Mental Health Champion, simply complete the True Sport Mental Health & Wellbeing eLearning module and attend an in-person workshop.
For further details about this session or the initiative, contact the True Sport team at:
truesport@sportwest.com.au
