A Coleraine fan has spoken of the benefits of a weekly mental health initiative hosted by the club…
By: Michael Anderson
‘Man On’ is a community programme for men of all ages and abilities.
Everyone is welcome to come along to Coleraine Showgrounds every Wednesday and enjoy a game of football from 8-9pm, followed by refreshments and the chance to socialise afterwards.
The ‘Man On’ initiative was first rolled out a year and a half ago in Larne by former Northern Ireland international Jeff Hughes, ex Coleraine striker Davy McDaid and fellow Irish League player Johnny McMurray.
Coleraine captain Lyndon Kane helps run the Coleraine event which is proving a huge success and continues to grow in numbers.
Kaleb McLaughlin is one of those to attend regularly.
And he says he has benefited enormously since attending the launch at the beginning of September.
“Absolutely it makes a huge difference,” Kaleb said.
“We can all get down and frustrated about things and feel low.
“For those couple of hours on a Wednesday you can completely clear your mind and forget about things.”
A student at the Northern Regional College on the Pathways to Employment programme, Kaleb can’t speak highly enough of Davy, Jeff and Lyndon’s contribution.
He explained: “They have taught us all that it’s OK not to be OK.
“They have been so supportive right from the start.
“These are guys you watched and still watch in the Irish League but they are down to earth and show a human touch you wouldn’t get in England or Scotland.
“Another Coleraine player, for example, is Dylan Boyle. I have got friendly with him and he has improved me for the better.”
The 18-year-old encourages those who haven’t yet tried ‘Man On’ to come along.
“It’s fantastic, you don’t have to be a brilliant footballer, it’s all about having fun,” added Kaleb, who travels home and away every week following the Bannsiders.
“Everyone feels comfortable talking about issues which isn’t always the case.
“With each passing week people feel more relaxed and it’s great having someone to speak to about things that are troubling you.
“When you find out someone else is going through the same thing it can take a lot off your shoulders.
“I have been able to offer support to people and I know there are people in the group I can totally trust and that I can talk to.
“I look forward to going along on a Wednesday where I can just be myself and clear my head.”