Glentoran Academy has teamed up with TAMHI (Tackling Awareness of Mental Health Issues) to champion the Text Teammate campaign – a free, 24/7 confidential text service that offers vital mental health support.
Every Academy squad will proudly wear the Text Teammate logo on the sleeves of their home and away kits this season, carrying the message of support and resilience to thousands of young players, families and supporters across Northern Ireland.
The partnership was launched on Monday 15 September at Ashfield Boys’ 3G pitch, where Director of Football Paul Millar, Player Development Coordinator Andy Mathieson, and Head of Academy Jacko joined Academy players to unveil the initiative alongside TAMHI representatives.
Jacko, Head of Academy at Glentoran said: “Football teaches teamwork on the pitch, but Text Teammate is about teamwork off it. At Glentoran Academy our responsibility goes beyond developing talented footballers. We are committed to developing well-rounded young people. That means reinforcing the message that speaking up is a sign of strength and that checking in on a teammate can make all the difference when life feels difficult.
“Every time our Academy players step onto the pitch this season they will not only be representing Glentoran, but also carrying an important message on their shirts. It is a visible reminder to thousands of young people that help is always available, and a statement that football can be a powerful force for good in every aspect of life.”
TAMHI (Tackling Awareness of Mental Health Issues) is a Belfast-based charity that works with sports clubs, schools and youth groups to raise awareness of mental health and provide practical tools to support wellbeing. The organisation uses the power of sport to break stigma, start conversations and ensure that young people know help is always available.
Joe Donnelly, Founder of TAMHI, said: “1 in 8 young people struggle with their mental health. This is huge. Having the entire Glentoran Academy carry the Text Teammate message shows young people that football is about looking after your mates as much as scoring goals. They’ll play in hundreds of games against thousands of young people, which is nothing short of a fantastic reach.
“A huge thanks to Jacko from the Academy who has always been an avid supporter of TAMHI – Tackling Awareness of Mental Health Issues – throughout his football journey, for putting the idea forward and making it happen.”
