Old Xaverians changing the game for young people

The Old Xaverians Football Club (OXFC) have made a commitment to improve community awareness for the wellbeing of young people specifically in the areas of mental and physical health, financial and career advice.

These areas form the basis of the club’s Player Well Being agenda as it seeks to increase the availability of information for young people to consider that can assist them as they face these challenges and opportunities.

Central to increasing community awareness is the Club’s Game Changers series. The theme at each Game Changer session is empower young people to meet tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities by engaging well respected opinion leaders to share their insights in these areas.

The sessions are much like the popular “Ted Talks” with each individual briefing lasting no more than 12 minutes.

Head of Player Well Being at the OXFC, Paul Lefebvre, says that Game Changers Series is targeted at anyone 15 years and older. “This is not an exclusive series for 20-30 year olds. We are also keen to extend the invitation to parents of young people, as well, so they can collectively share in some of the valuable insights that will be discussed at the session.”

The “Game Changers” initiative was developed by former player Old Xavs player Mike Beardsley who recognised the forum compliments the club’s desire to increase the exchange of information on these important topics.

The next Game Changers event will be held at Xavier College in the EHPAC on August 9th at 7pm. It is a 90 minute presentation with a variety of accomplished speakers; including, Sharelle McMahon, Georgie Harman, Justin McLean, Dr Gunta Caldwell & Dr Andrew Walby.

“We are very focused on improving mental health awareness – aiming to encourage people to be more understanding and willing to consider the importance of seeking the right support”, Lefebvre noted.

“In addition, it’s important to note that, we are not paying any of the speakers for their services. The only fee for attendees is a gold coin donation with the proceeds being shared between two Mental Health charities/organisations ‘Youth Suicide, LET’s TALK and Beyond Blue’.  Our commitment to these organisations will be ongoing”.

Therefore, the event is a Gold Coin donation and is open to everyone, not just exclusively Old Xaverians.  

Download the Game Changers flyer here: Game Changers Flyer

To register your attendance please log on at: www.trybooking.com/QJXN