1
'Moment against silence' to be observed during All Blacks v Tonga match
By Online Editors
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) is encouraging fans to take a stand against silence as part of a new campaign launched today, to support the conversation around mental health and the stigma associated with getting help.
Driven by HeadFirst, NZR’s mental health and wellbeing programme, and their partner Movember Foundation, A Moment Against Silence aims to normalise the act of reaching out to others who may be going through tough times.
Fans attending the All Blacks v Tonga Test in Hamilton this Saturday can play their part during a special Moment Against Silence at 2.21pm at FMG Stadium Waikato, where they’ll be urged to make as much noise as possible.
Among those putting their weight behind the cause is HeadFirst Ambassador and former All Black, Keven Mealamu.
“Everyone goes through tough times, and rugby players and the rugby community are no different. We want it to be normal to support each other through life's challenges, and having a mate reach out can make a big difference.
“Talking about how you’re feeling is often seen as too hard to do – and at first it may not be easy. We need to remind everyone that staying silent isn’t the answer.
“We want to create a really special moment at the Test in Hamilton and hopefully it will encourage everyone in New Zealand to reach out and check in with a mate.”
NZR Education and Wellbeing Manager, Dr Nathan Price, said the campaign flipped the idea of a minute's silence on its head.
“A minute’s silence is commonly used to show our respect and observe a loss or tragedy, however when it comes to mental wellbeing silence is the last thing we need. A Moment Against Silence aims to encourage people to reach out, speak up and make some noise.
“One of the key strategies when it comes to looking after those going through tough times is to proactively lend support and direct a mate to places where they can get help."
Dr Price said he hoped this would be an ongoing initiative.
“We want to encourage people to create their own Moments Against Silence, even if it’s as simple as sending a text to a mate.
“Together let’s prevent the next minute of silence by having a Moment Against Silence.”
Mental Health Foundation chief executive Shaun Robinson said one in five Kiwis experience mental illness or distress every year and it can be an incredibly lonely experience.
"Mental illness can make people feel worthless or that they’re not good enough. As mates, wh?nau and teammates, it’s up to us to say that isn’t true, we care, we need you in the game, we’ll stand by you when times are tough and help you come out the other side.
“This campaign is a great opportunity to make some noise to show how much we care – and then back that noise up with action.
"If you’re worried about someone, trust your gut and ask how they’re doing. Don’t just ask once – it can take a few tries for people to work up the courage to give an honest answer. Be there for them, stay involved and walk alongside them. Your support can make all the difference.”
- New Zealand Rugby
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Saracens statement: The outcome of Billy Vunipola investigation
3
Hacjivah Dayimani exits SA following Springbok snub
4
Henry Slade and Exeter Chiefs come to terms
5
Latest Comments
I have heard it asked if RA is essentially one of the part owners and I suppose therefor should be on the other side of these two parties. If they purchased the rebels and guaranteed them, and are responsible enough they incur Rebels penalties, where is this line drawn? Seems rough to have to pay a penalty for something were your involvement sees you on the side of the conned party, the creditors. If the Rebels directors themselves have given the club their money, 6mil worth right, why aren’t they also listed as sitting with RA and the Tax office? And the legal threat was either way, new Rebels or defunct, I can’t see how RA assume the threat was less likely enough to warrant comment about it in this article. Surely RA ignore that and only worry about whether they can defend it or not, which they have reported as being comfortable with. So in effect wouldn’t it be more accurate to say there is no further legal threat (or worry) in denying the deal. Unless the directors have reneged on that. > Returns of a Japanese team or even Argentinean side, the Jaguares, were said to be on the cards, as were the ideas of standing up brand new teams in Hawaii or even Los Angeles – crazy ideas that seemingly forgot the time zone issues often cited as a turn-off for viewers when the competition contained teams from South Africa. Those timezones are great for SR and are what will probably be needed to unlock its future (cant see it remaining without _atleast _help from Aus), day games here are night games on the West Coast of america, were potential viewers triple, win win. With one of the best and easiest ways to unlock that being to play games or a host a team there. Less good the further across Aus you get though. Jaguares wouldn’t be the same Jaguares, but I still would think it’s better having them than keeping the Rebels. The other options aren’t really realistic 25’ options, no. From reading this authors last article I think if the new board can get the investment they seem to be confident in, you keeping them simply for the amount of money they’ll be investing in the game. Then ditch them later if they’re not good enough without such a high budget. Use them to get Jaguares reintergration stronger, with more key players on board, and have success drive success.
Go to commentsYeah, and ours is waaay bigger than yours. Just as you's get a semi…oh hold on that never happens
Go to comments