DURING this Saturday's AFL South Coast match, the three Bomaderry Tigers teams will don special socks, to support the inaugural AFL NSW/ACT R U OK? round.
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Across August 3-4, this R U OK? round will run simultaneously across all 14 competitions across AFL NSW/ACT, including the Tigers' premier men's and women's clash with Shellharbour City at Myimbarr Oval, while their division one men's side will battle Nowra-Albatross at West Street Oval.
"When this round was first announced, we at Bomaderry, a club with players and staff from diverse backgrounds, jumped at the chance to be involved," Bomaderry president Graham Duke said.
"As mental health doesn't discriminate, the round encompasses both the senior and junior competitions this weekend."
Before the players take the field on Saturday, the Tigers will be holding a seminar at Artie Smith Oval on Wednesday from 6pm - where people can talk about their own mental health problems, in a safe environment.
"The night of Wednesday is about understanding the background of R U OK? and why it was created," Duke said.
"There are a lot of us within the club who have been directly or indirectly affected by mental health, depression or just the day to day living pressures.
"A lot of work places do this type of day but from my experience, nothing compares to the bonds of mateship, strength and safety of a footy club where anyone can call for help and get it when you need it - it's all about mates looking after mates.
"Numerous people have put their hands up to speak on Wednesday, which I hope encourages more to come forward and talk in a safe environment.
"Obviously it's hard to put your hand up and admit a problem or you've been involved in something like this, that's exactly what R U OK? is about, starting the conversation."
To speak with someone immediately, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue 1300 224 636, MensLine 1300 789978, Kids Helpline 1800 551800, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, Veterans and Veterans' Families Counselling Service 1800 011 046.