Tackle Your Feelings 2025: Empowering Clubs to Prioritise Wellbeing

In 2025, the VAFA has seen strong uptake of the Tackle Your Feelings (TYF) program, with 22 clubs completing the mental health education workshop and more than 750 coaches and players participating in the sessions.

TYF, developed in collaboration with the AFL Coaches Association, AFL Players Association, and Zurich Foundation, equips community football clubs with the tools to better understand, recognise, and respond to signs of mental ill-health. 

This year’s participation highlights a continued commitment from VAFA clubs to foster mentally healthy environments. Clubs such as Old Trinity Grammarians, Elsternwick, Mazenod, La Trobe Uni, Power House, Masala, Preston Bullants, and many others have led by example, ensuring their coaches, players, and volunteers are supported both on and off the field.  

In 2025, the VAFA was fortunate to have TYF ambassadors such as Ellie Blackburn at Port Melbourne Chargers, Nathan Buckley at Aquinas, and Dylan Buckley at Prahran. The presence of these outstanding ambassadors brought added significance and depth to the sessions, sparking meaningful discussions. 

The sessions delivered at clubs during the season sparked honest conversations, build emotional literacy, and encourage leaders to check in with those around them. The updated 2025 format has made workshops more interactive and practical, aligning with the everyday challenges faced by local football communities. 

In addition to TYF, the VAFA continues to offer its Player Assistance Program (PAP) a vital resource for players and umpires seeking mental health support. The program offers access to up to three free confidential professional counselling, ensuring that individuals across the VAFA community can seek help when they need it most. 

Whether through structured workshops or one-on-one support, the VAFA is proud to lead initiatives that prioritise mental wellbeing. With a few more clubs still to host TYF sessions in the coming weeks, the momentum is building for lasting cultural change. 

It’s more than just footy. It’s about strengthening clubs from the inside out and creating communities where everyone feels safe, valued, and supported.