More than a game: Hand Up Cup game keeps powerful mental health message alive

Two Bellarine Clubs are joining forces to continue spreading a powerful message

By Ben Andonoudis

While every team goes into a game trying to win, the scoreboard will only tell part of the story this weekend as part of AFL Barwon's Mental Health Round.

The matchup between Queenscliff FNC and Drysdale FNC will see them come together for a cause that extends well beyond football. The Hand Up Cup is an event with special significance for both clubs after they experienced tragic lossses.

Queenscliff lost Lucas Niven in 2018 and Drysdale lost Ryan Gatgens in 2019.

Both young men were valued members of their communities, and their absence continues to be felt by those who knew them.

The tragic events brought the two clubs together, and in 2021 the now-annual Hand Up Cup was established.

For Queenscliff President Ali Waight, the match and occasion both aims to honour Lucas and Ryan, while also sending out a poignant message for the local sporting community.

“It’s okay to put your hand up for help when you’re struggling, Waight says.

"And it’s equally important to offer your hand out to someone who may be doing it tough."

This message is one that's backed up by the numbers.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 42.9% of people aged 16-85 years have experienced a mental health disorder at some point in their lives.

That reality is impossible to ignore and speaks to the role that sporting clubs can play.

“Mental health is something that affects people of all ages and backgrounds, Waight says. "Many players have either experienced challenges themselves or know someone who has,” Waight said.

With the knowledge that mental health challenges can affect anyone, the Coutas have worked hard to keep wellbeing at the forefront.

MORE ON READ THE PLAY ROUND

“(And) we will continue looking for ways to strengthen our wellbeing programs and support networks,” Waight says.

For Waight this gives them an opportunity to impact their supporters’ lives in a positive way.

“Community sporting clubs are often the heartbeat of regional towns and are uniquely positioned to make a difference in people’s lives."   

It is a responsibility Drysdale also embraces through its involvement in the day.

For Drysdale Secretary Holly Roskosch, the Hand Up Cup represents more than the game itself.

“The day is about something far bigger than football and netball, Roskosch says. "Our players understand the significance of the occasion and are incredibly proud to be involved."

Just like Queenscliff, Roskosch says wellbeing is an integral part of Drysdale’s identity and one the club is proud to embrace.

“Events like Hands Up Cup are incredibly important, but they are just one piece of the puzzle."