Friday 10th October is World Mental Health Day. At St Chad’s Broomfield CC, we see cricket as more than a summer sport; it is a place where friendships form, stresses ease, and resilience is built. This article explains why mental health matters in grassroots cricket, how the Club will mark the day, and practical steps every member can take to look after themselves and others.

Why Mental Health Matters in Grassroots Cricket

Cricket brings routine, camaraderie, physical activity, and purpose - factors proven to support good mental health. Matches and training offer structure that helps with mood and motivation, while the social side of the Club combats isolation and builds belonging. At the same time, players, volunteers, and families can face pressures - performance anxiety, balancing commitments, financial strain, or personal challenges - that deserve attention and support.

Themes Linking Cricket and Wellbeing

Teamwork and belonging - Cricket’s collaborative nature helps people feel included, valued, and supported.
Routine and physical activity - Regular training and matches boost mood, sleep, and energy.
Skill, focus and flow - The concentration cricket demands can create restorative flow states that reduce stress.
Mentoring and leadership - Captains, coaches, and senior players model coping strategies and offer informal mentoring.
Safe spaces to speak up - The pavilion and practice nets can become places where difficult conversations start, and support is offered.

How St Chad’s Broomfield CC Will Mark World Mental Health Day

Wellbeing wall in the new pavilion - Clear signposting to club welfare officers as well as local and national mental health resources.
Open conversation sessions - An informal, confidential chat space facilitated by trained volunteers where people can share experiences and signpost others to help.
Club social and training check-ins - Extra emphasis on an inclusive welcome at socials and training sessions so newer or quieter members feel noticed.
Management and captains’ pledge – Club and team leaders will commit to listening, checking in with teammates, and promoting supportive behaviours.
Collaborate – We will continue our links and work with organisations such as Opening Up Cricket and CALM.

Practical Steps for Players and Members

Check in regularly with someone else; a brief message can make a significant difference.
Keep routines around sleep, meals, and training - consistency supports mental wellbeing.
Use physical activity as a tool: a net session, a brisk walk to the ground, or a throwdown can clear the head.
Share struggles early; asking for help is a strength that keeps teams and families stronger.
If you lead, model vulnerability by talking about setbacks and how you cope.

Where to Get Help

Speak to a trusted teammate, coach, or club welfare officer.
Use established helplines and local NHS services if you need immediate professional support.
For non-urgent advice, national charities offer practical guides and signposting for athletes and volunteers.

A Short Message from the Club Chairman

St Chad’s Broomfield CC is committed to creating a culture where every member feels welcome, safe, included, and supported. We will continue to recruit and invest in training for coaches and club welfare officers, strengthen our signposting, and ensure our new pavilion is a welcoming place for anyone who needs to talk.

How You Can Help Right Now

Say hello to someone new this week; small acts of kindness build connection.
Volunteer for our open conversation sessions - listening is a powerful contribution.
Share this article on your social channels to show the wider community that mental health matters to local cricket.

Closing

World Mental Health Day is a timely reminder that wellbeing is part of how we play and live together. At St Chad’s Broomfield CC, we will keep making the ground and new pavilion a place where people enjoy cricket and feel supported to be themselves. If you need support, reach out; if you can offer support, step forward; together we look after one another. Chad Up!