THE PULSE – R U OK? Day 2026

Today is R U OK? Day, a reminder of the simple yet powerful role we can all play in supporting the people around us. 

At the VAFA, mental health and wellbeing are not issues that receive attention on just one day of the year. They are ongoing priorities that sit at the heart of our commitment to clubs, players, coaches, volunteers, administrators and supporters across our competition. 

Community football clubs are much more than places where people come to train, compete and watch sport. They are environments where friendships are formed, connections are strengthened and people find a sense of belonging. For many participants, their football club is one of the most important communities they are part of. 

That is why the VAFA has maintained a longstanding commitment to supporting clubs in the mental health space. Through initiatives such as our Player Assistance Program, the delivery of Tackle Your Feelings workshops and ongoing wellbeing support resources, we continue to work alongside clubs to create safe, welcoming and supportive environments for everyone involved. 

While R U OK? Day falls on September 10^th this year, its message remains just as relevant every day. 

Research from R U OK? continues to show that many people underestimate the impact of a simple conversation. Despite nine in 10 people reporting that they feel cared for and grateful when somebody checks in on them, a significant number of Australians still hesitate to ask the question when they think someone may be struggling. 

In many ways, community sport is uniquely positioned to help change that. 

Every week, thousands of people walk through the doors of VAFA clubs. They come from different backgrounds, different walks of life and often carry challenges that may not be visible to those around them. While no one is expected to have all the answers, we can all contribute to an environment where people feel seen, valued and supported. 

One of the strengths of our competition is that player wellbeing and enjoyment sit at the forefront of everything our clubs do. As an amateur football community, our volunteers consistently go above and beyond to ensure clubs are places where people can connect, have fun and support one another through life’s ups and downs. 

The next time you’re at your club, take a moment to appreciate what that environment means to you and what it might mean to someone else. A friendly conversation, a quick check-in, an invitation to get involved or a genuine effort to listen can make a meaningful difference to another person’s day. 

For clubs looking to further strengthen their wellbeing initiatives, there are excellent resources available through the R U OK? website that can help foster positive and supportive club environments throughout the year. 

If your club is interested in hosting a Tackle Your Feelings workshop in 2027, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to me at [email protected] to discuss how we can support your club. 

Community football has always been about more than the scoreboard. It is about connection, belonging and looking after one another. R U OK? Day is an important reminder of that, but the real opportunity lies in carrying that spirit forward every day of the year. 

If you’re thinking it, ask. You never know the difference a conversation might make. 

Ben Lawrence

CLUB DEVELOPMENT LEAD