Adelaide United is partnering with Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation to host the first-ever Mental Health Game in A-League history this Sunday, as part of Mental Health Awareness Month.
The partnership will not only showcase the club’s commitment to mental health awareness and education but also raise crucial funds for much-needed research.
The inaugural Mental Health Game will take place on Sunday when the Reds face Melbourne City in what promises to be a tantalising contest.
The match will highlight the critical role sports can play in advocating for mental health awareness and destigmatising mental health challenges.
Fans will have the opportunity to donate directly to Breakthrough, purchase limited-edition Adelaide United x Breakthrough scarves, enter a competition to win corporate tickets and bid on limited-edition Adelaide United Mental Health Game jerseys.
Goalkeeper and Breakthrough player ambassador Joe Gauci will also be wearing specially made Breakthrough-branded goalkeeper gloves that will be auctioned off after the game.
“As a player ambassador for Adelaide United, I am honoured to be part of an initiative that promotes mental health,” Gauci said.
“We all face challenges in life, and it’s crucial that we recognise the importance of mental health and wellbeing.
“This game represents an opportunity to make a real impact, and we are committed to using our platform to support this cause.”
Breakthrough CEO, John Mannion, thanked Gauci and the club, expressing his excitement about this partnership.
“We are proud to be part of this initiative with Adelaide United,” he said.
“Mental health affects us all, and through this partnership, we hope to break down barriers, increase understanding, and support research that transforms lives.
“The Mental Health Game is more than football; it’s about changing lives and supporting groundbreaking research that will lead to a future where mental health challenges are understood and prevented.”
Proceeds from the Mental Health Game will be donated to the Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation to advance its research and education programs. In addition to the match, there will be a range of activities, resources, and information available to fans on game day to promote mental health education.