Supporting St George Football Referees Association with Mental Health Workshop
Pigeon Football recently conducted a mental health workshop for the referees of the Football St George Association. The session aimed to ensure a foundational understanding of mental health and equip referees with practical tools to manage their wellbeing amidst the pressures of officiating games during a long season. Practical discussions around self care strategies that could be integrated into pre-game routines or away from the game helping the individuals recognise and take steps to manage their mental health in what can sometimes be a stressful position.
Referee retention is a critical issue in grassroots sports, with football no exception. Low referee retention rates can often lead to matches being played without official referees or abandoned entirely. This situation not only disrupts games but also deprives the sport of experienced referees, resulting in a greater reliance on less experienced officials for the current season, the need to find new referees each season and in the longer term reducing the pool of talent that could one day become officials at a higher level. The success of the workshop and participant feedback underscored the need for continued, proactive measures to support referees' mental health. By implementing the tools and strategies discussed, referees can better manage stress and continue their roles more effectively and sustainably.
During the workshop, participants learned various practical tools to enhance their mental wellbeing. Breathing exercises were one example discussed as a simple yet powerful technique to alleviate stress and anxiety pre or post games. Additionally, self care practices, such as maintaining a healthy work-life balance, engaging in regular physical activity, diet and seeking social support, were emphasized.
Pigeon Football, as the major ball sponsor for Football St George, takes pride in adding value beyond providing high-quality footballs. Our commitment to supporting the mental health of referees through workshops and mental health first aid certifications demonstrates our dedication to the holistic support of the football community. By offering these resources, we aim to foster a healthier, more resilient community of referees who can confidently manage the demands of their roles and contribute to the overall success of the game.
We encourage other football clubs to consider partnering with Pigeon Football, for both quality footballs and the ability to provide additional information/support to your community. Pigeon Football remains committed to elevating the standard of grassroots football through our innovative and supportive initiatives.
