As part of a community awareness campaign throughout September by the Policing and Drugs Subgroup of Drogheda Implementation Board, led by members of An Garda Siochana and HSE Mental Health Services, Drogheda United will go green for our Premier Division clash against Derry City FC on Friday September 27th.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of the resources available to support those experiencing mental health difficulties and reduce the stigmas associated with this.
Having previously named our stadium ’Head In The Game Park’ for three Seasons in support of a movement set up by Irish football fans in an endeavour to raise awareness of the importance of mental health across the football community, this campaign aligns very strongly with The Drogs values.
This particular campaign though is fan-led with the supporters group ‘The Famous 45 Ultras’ leading from the front for the club on the initiative.
In her commendation of the young fans, Club Chairperson Joanna Byrne has outlined a series of events that will unfold before and during the upcoming fixture on Friday.
“Sadly, we are at a crisis point in our society where Suicide and battles with Mental Health has darkened all of our doors in some way. I couldn’t be prouder of our fans, and The F45U in particular for their work on this campaign. The build up of the match on Friday will see the lads promote the See Change Green Ribbon Campaign and distribute Green Ribbons, posters and information cards outlining resources and support available to those who need it, to everyone entering Weavers Park for the match.
“They have also liaised with the teams and I’m pleased to confirm both The Drogs and Derry will warm up in green t-shirts hailing the hashtag #EndTheStigma, and I want to pay particular thanks to Derry City FC for coming onboard and participating in this too. As kick-off approaches, the Ultras will then unveil a Tifo Display in line with the messaging of the campaign.
“This is not the first major community based project our Ultras have driven, and to have fans and young men that are so aware of the huge challenges our society is facing makes me very proud. It’s always been said that there is great potential for our club and the fans to collectively make a difference in our communities and endeavours like this do just that.
“Collaborative projects between the fans and the Gardai also go a long way in breaking down barriers between youngsters and the guards, which in itself is exceptionally worthwhile. The group led by Dean O’Reilly, Nathan O’Connor and Kieran Lyons have poured their hearts into ensuring Drogs had a place at the table on this campaign and the club has been happy to facilitate and back them in that.
“We’re asking all of our fans attending to wear something Green and I’ve no doubt the fans will rally behind the group on Friday with this and with their display and show everyone that Drogheda is United in our support of #EndTheStigma Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness.”
