A NEW mental health awareness training programme, developed in collaboration between the Football Association of Wales (FAW) and the DPJ Foundation, is set to launch at Crymych Football Club on Monday, 30th September 2024 at 6pm. The course is aimed at supporting both sports clubs and rural communities in understanding and addressing mental health challenges.

The training will take place at Crymych Football Club’s newly established clubhouse, located at the Crymych Arms, which was purchased by club members and supporters in October 2023. This initiative marks a significant step in promoting mental health awareness within the local community, particularly in sports and rural settings.

The course, which is free of charge and lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, will cover a range of important topics including:

• What is Mental Health?
• How common is poor mental health?
• Stigma surrounding mental health
• Causes and identifying signs of mental health issues
• Suicide awareness
• Tips for effective talking and listening
• Signposting and self-care strategies
• Creating a supportive club culture

This training has been designed to equip members of sports clubs with the knowledge and skills to support themselves and their teammates. It is particularly beneficial for those in leadership roles, such as coaches, captains, and anyone responsible for the wellbeing of others.

Cris Tomos, a committee member of Crymych Football Club, emphasised the importance of the initiative: “This training is an invaluable resource for our club and community. It will not only raise awareness about mental health but also empower individuals to support one another in a meaningful way.”

Those interested in attending the session are encouraged to reserve their place by calling Crymych Football Club at the Crymych Arms on 01239 831435, or by contacting Cris Tomos directly on 07974 099738.

This event marks the beginning of a broader rollout, with the DPJ Foundation and FAW planning to offer similar training sessions to sports clubs and rural communities across Wales.

SPORT Pembrokeshire’s recent Young Ambassador Conference brought passionate and motivated learners together from 22 Primary schools.

The young ambassadors are dedicated to promoting sport and physical activity in their schools and communities.

Nearly 70 Bronze Young Ambassadors took part in a number of workshops delivered by the Sport Pembrokeshire team including understanding leadership, action planning and inclusive games inspired by the Paralympics.

The Year Five and Six pupils also took part in a first aid workshop and heard from two former Young Ambassadors – Carys Ribbon and Rhys Llewellyn – about their journeys with the Sport Pembrokeshire team.

Special Olympics Berlin Gold medallist, Bleddyn Gibbs, presented volunteer lanyards and activity booklets to all schools and pupils attending.

Sport Pembrokeshire Manger Matthew Freeman said: “Our Young Ambassadors are role models for their peers and help encourage more involvement in sport and physical activities and healthy lifestyles. It is fantastic to see them brought together to share ideas from across their schools.”

The Young Ambassador scheme is sponsored by Valero, and Stephen Thornton attended the conference to see the work the young people are doing.

Mr Thornton added: “This programme is an essential way of encouraging physical activity in schools and communities. Sport is often a way for young people to learn about achievement and well-being and participation leads to improved academic results. Valero is delighted to sponsor a project which helps to improve the health and well-being of young people in Pembrokeshire.”

There will be aSecondary Schools Young Ambassador Conference in October and any schools or pupils interested in more information can contact [email protected]

IN a heartfelt tribute to local heroes, the first match of the annual Willington Slate rugby trophy was held yesterday at Pembroke RFC, featuring a unique display of sportsmanship and remembrance.

The match, now a key fixture in the local rugby calendar, is celebrated with a the passing of the rugby ball between the St Davids to Angle Lifeboat RNLI teams during a poignant training exercise.

The Willington Slate rugby trophy commemorates Gareth and Daniel Willington, a father and son duo who tragically lost their lives on 28 April 2016. Their vessel, the Harvester, sank near St Davids Head, prompting a large-scale rescue operation. On that fateful day, RNLI teams from St Davids, Angle, and Fishguard launched multiple lifeboats, including the Tyne, Tamar, and Trent classes, in a valiant effort to aid the stricken fishermen.

“It is our honour to participate in this commemoration,” said a spokesperson from the RNLI, reflecting the deep emotional connection between the lifeboat community and the annual event.

The tribute at Pembroke RFC not only highlights the bravery of those who risk their lives at sea but also serves as a reminder of the strong bonds within these coastal communities.