Mayo GAA has presented their charity partner Mindspace with a cheque for €15,000, the proceeds of a charity game between Mayo and Sligo last January. Commenting at the presentation, Mayo GAA Cathaoirleach Seamus Tuohy said the partnership with Mindspace has had a positive impact on many young people by raising awareness of individual mental health and normalising its discussions.
“Sport offers a great platform to connect and support others on and off the field and it is important to make mental health part of everyday conservations. The partnership between Mayo GAA and Mindspace over the last three years has raised awareness and it has started the conversation for many,” commented Tuohy.
“We all have our low days and the importance of friends, work colleagues, teammates and support from organisations such as “Mindspace”, helps to reduce the stigma around mental ill-health, thus leading to meaningful conversations which opens the pathway for many to a full recovery. Today we acknowledge the great work carried out by Peadar Gardiner and his Mindspace colleagues. Mayo GAA is delighted to present the proceeds of the charity game January 2, 2023 to our partners Mindspace,
Tuohy complimented everyone that assisted in making the charity game possible especially both teams, their managements, Ballina Stephenities GAA Club, an Coiste Bainistí, John Walker and his PRO committee and the fantastic Mayo supporters who turned out in large numbers to watch the game.
Mayo GAA senior football manager Kevin McStay said the senior team was delighted to support Mindspace. “The game provided a fantastic opportunity for Mayo GAA to continue to raise and normalise discussions around mental health. We encourage supporters to check out the Mindspace Mayo website if they are having a tough time. It’s okay to not be okay and it’s okay to reach out for help,” commented Kevin McStay.
Mindspace Project Manager Peadar Gardiner thanked Mayo GAA for their generous donation and all those Mayo and Sligo supporters who turned out on the day for their generosity. “We’re humbled to see the generosity of our charity partner Mayo GAA and the GAA community, who were so supportive of us in the charity game back in January. We cannot thank you enough for your kindness,” commented Gardiner.
“On behalf of all the management, staff and youth panel of Mindspace, thank you to everyone involved for your support. I would also like to thank Ballina Stephenites for hosting the game and everyone who bought a match ticket and contributed to raising these vital funds, which will enable us to support young people, when and where they need us. The support of Mayo GAA will allow us to continue to grow and develop what we do, with the aim of being able to support young people across county Mayo with their mental health. We continue to see a significant increase in the demand for our services and supports and it is so important that young people, their families, teachers, coaches and communities know that we are here to support them,” commented Gardiner