The Breakthrough Community Round is a unique and initiative way to engage sporting clubs within various codes to raise awareness funds and to break the stigma around mental illness.

At Breakthrough we are often approached by individuals who have experienced mental health struggles within their club. They have seen the need to bring the mental health conversation front and centre and are keen to learn tips and tools to provide support when they realise their teammates are struggling.

The round was held in May this year, at the peak of the winter sports season, with some clubs opting to hold the round at other dates to better suit their calendars. Participating clubs were sent supporting packs and Breakthrough’s signature purple and blue tape which is becoming an icon for clubs championing the mental health conversation.

Sporting clubs are trusted voices in their communities and are an ideal vehicle to drive the message about mental health awareness and the need for research to help tackle mental illness head on. The round is the perfect opportunity to start or continue the mental health conversation in clubs.

This year, a record number of over 160 clubs signed up to the round, across Football, Netball, Volleyball, Rugby, Lawn Bowls, Cricket, Soccer, Softball and Baseball. Together the clubs raised over $62,000 and gained 100 places in Mental Health First Aid Training.

We are looking forward to seeing how the Breakthrough Community Round will evolve in the next year and giving clubs the opportunity to put forward their own mental health ambassadors to drive the conversation within their clubs.