Local Clubs Stand Together for Youth Mental Health in Read the Play Round
From Friday 1 to Sunday 3 August, football and netball clubs across the Bellarine, Geelong, Geelong and District, and Colac and District Football Netball Leagues will come together to take part in Read the Play Round—a powerful weekend dedicated to raising awareness about youth mental health and building supportive club environments.
More than 50 clubs will participate in this annual initiative, recognising the vital role community sport plays in supporting the mental wellbeing of young people. Each 15/U netball and U16 football match will highlight the values of Respect, Courage, and Teamwork, with a Read the Play MVP awarded to the player who best demonstrates these qualities. MVPs will be honoured with a special medallion and game ball following each game.
Read the Play Round is proudly supported by partners Hamlan Homes and Beyond Bank, whose commitment to youth mental health is helping to drive positive cultural change across local clubs and communities.
“This weekend is about showing young people that their mental health matters—and that their club has their back,” said Michelle Gerdtz, CEO of Read the Play.“When clubs champion open conversations, empathy and respect, they create spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and connected.”
Read the Play delivers free, evidence-based mental health literacy programs directly into local sports clubs, helping young people aged 12–18 build the skills and confidence to navigate mental health challenges, seek help when needed, and support their teammates.
To help celebrate the round, clubs are encouraged to get creative—decorating their change rooms, capturing pre-game team photos, and sharing their commitment to mental wellbeing on social media using the hashtag #readtheplayround.
“We’re proud of how deeply our clubs have embraced this initiative,” said Ms Gerdtz.
“It’s a grassroots movement that’s creating meaningful impact—one game, one conversation, one young person at a time.”
