kickoff - Introduction

Rugby League is probably one of the toughest sports going around. The guys that play, at all levels, are generally regarded likewise; as being 'tough'. It takes a very unique person to pick up an object (in this case a football) and charge headlong into a group of very large angry men, whose intent it is to 'smash' you to the ground, thus inhibiting your forward progress. All this without the aid of any, or little, protective padding, no helmet (or minimal head protection) and with the full knowledge as to their intent and the probable consequences.

Add to this fact that these athletes repeatedly continue this process for a period of no less than 80 minutes, only being offset by 'role reversal' (where the attackers become defenders - an equally arduous task); never mind the countless hours of training, the need for pre-match planning, the essential requirement to 'read the game', maintain strong 'self belief' & confidence, understand the 'plays' and develop an instinctive comprehension of the overall game whilst on the field.

While this toughness is essential 'on the field', it does not necessarily translate to other areas of a player's life. Many a 'rough headed', 'hard-nosed' footballer can be 'gentle giants' with their children and loved ones. Similarly, the confidence & control they experience during a game does not guarantee social confidence, self assuredness & control.

The type of physical & mental 'toughness' required to play the game can often compromise a person's capacity to cope with mental health issues such as depression. It can be seen as a 'weakness' to accept or acknowledge a mental illness or personality inadequacy or flaw. As such, many problems that could, and should, be treated early are going largely undetected or 'ignored'.

Inappropriate and damaging 'coping mechanisms' are used to mask or temporarily deal with psychological, emotional & social problems. Drugs & alcohol are two (2) of the most common methods used, though there are many others that inhibit 'healing' & treatment.

By ignoring of rejecting any notion of mental ill-health, a person puts at risk the very things that make their lives complete. This can have life-long consequences. There are those who have lost their football career, whose future with the game post-retirement is severely damaged; where relationships with their wives or partners are compromised and sometimes lost. Should children be involved in the latter, the costs are even greater.

Financially, emotionally, socially & psychologically, the individual becomes a mere shadow of their former selves. The dreams & aspirations they had as a junior footballer are gone or at least barely resemble those they once held.

This is of course one the worst scenarios & it would be presumptuous & foolish to suggest that this will occur in each case of neglected mental health or illness; but there are examples of this unfortunately. It is possible.

What is certain is that there ARE consequences to this neglect. The degree of effect from these consequences varies from person to person & situation to situation; just as it does for any individual in society. No two people are the same.

'Kick Off' aims to provide the player or other related individual, with an understanding of various mental illnesses, stressors, developmental processes & coping mechanisms, need for assessment, treatment options and so on. Often the reason for fear & apprehension is the unknown. Armed with an understanding, even if that's relatively basic, will lead to increased confidence & dispel many of the untruths & fallacies that exist among those who choose a path of ignorance. Knowledge leads to power; power over yourself and power & strength to overcome obstacles in your life.

By de-stigmatizing mental illness and de-bunking many of the associated myths surrounding it, we will go a long way toward maximizing your performance 'on the field', improving behaviour 'off the field' and enabling you to fulfill your goals and aspirations by becoming the 'best you can' - for yourself, your loved ones, friends, family & significant others.

It is imperative that the same dedication, discipline, passion and 'toughness' displayed in your life as a player, be displayed 'off field' as a husband, partner, employee, businessman, successful member of society. It is your choice. Don't waste valuable time only to look back in the future and wish you'd done something earlier. Hindsight is a wonderful thing; foresight & insight is even better.