“Let’s get together and make a positive mark on the community through the great game of cricket” is the message from Gisborne District Cricket Association president, Simon Ovenden..
This week is an important one for the GDCA, with the Men’s Mental Health round across all matches (junior boys and girls, senior men and women) which began earlier this week.
“We are very proud to have partnered with The Black Dog Institute (https://www.
He pointed out the numbers associated with mental health are stark. Suicide is the leading cause of death for 15- to 44-year-olds, while 1 in 5 (20%) of people will experience symptoms of mental health every year.
“We need to do better, and community clubs such as those that make up the GDCA can make a difference.
“They are safe places for people to come, talk to people, make friends, and feel included and part of the broader community,” the president said.
There are numerous ways you all can make an impact. You can donate at games through a simple gold coin donation at your local cricket club or use the QR code below to make a donation. You can also check in on people and make sure they are okay.
“By just being present and listening, you can make a significant difference to somebody who is doing it tough,” Ovenden said.