Australian athletes, including medallists at the recent Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, are helping children by passing on their mental health and resilience strategies as part of a national partnership between the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and the Black Dog Institute.
In a statement, the AIS said the AIS Black Dog Mental Fitness Program was being delivered by 20 current and former high-performance athletes in schools and community sport organisations around the country.
It said following the success of the inaugural Program in 2020, the new group of ambassadors included Paralympic gold medal-winning cyclist, Paige Greco (pictured) and Olympic silver medallist and Kookaburra, Josh Beltz.
Minister for Sport, Richard Colbeck said the Government was proud to support the AIS wellbeing and community engagement programs.
“Athletes can have a positive influence — they inspire and motivate us,” Senator Colbeck said.
“So it’s wonderful to see these athletes spreading positive messages of mental health and resilience with school-aged children who are dealing with the increased pressures associated with the COIVID-19 pandemic,” he said.
Director of People Development and Wellbeing at the AIS, Matti Clements said not only did the Program help young people build their mental fitness and resilience, it provided high-performance athletes with an opportunity to meaningfully connect with their community.
“It helps them to learn personal and professional skills that will be with them during their sporting careers and beyond,” Ms Clements said.
Schools and community sport organisations interested in a free AIS Black Dog Mental Fitness presentation from one of the athletes should submit a request via the AIS website at this PS News link.
