Sport and Wellbeing: Going Hand in Hand
World Mental Health Day 2025
“It’s the start of a coaching session with a class of children, many of whom have never touched a rugby ball before. You can just see that some are natural athletes, have played other sports and are confident and bouncing, but a few look nervous and unsure of what is to come. As a coach and mentor you organise your group and as you work through the drills and games, building the basic skills you really focus in on those that look nervous. You may slightly change a technique with a quiet one-to-one intervention, and you praise and high five, a pass, a catch, a movement into space, and watch a smile emerge and the confidence build. It’s the most wonderful feeling as a coach and all it takes is observation and clear instruction and the most basic level of praise accompanied with a smile. My smile usually bigger than theirs.”
Each year on October 10th, people across the world mark World Mental Health Day – a moment to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and to break down the stigma that still surrounds it.
For many young people, however, maintaining good mental health can be a real challenge. The pressures of school, social media, and modern life can leave them feeling overwhelmed or isolated. That’s why community sport plays such a powerful role – it offers connection, structure, and purpose. Through teamwork, physical activity, and support from coaches and peers, sport can be a catalyst for confidence, resilience, and belonging.
At TackleLondon, we see this every single week. Rugby becomes far more than a game; it becomes a tool for learning, healing, and growth.
Coach Amy’s words capture what so many studies have shown: that belonging – knowing that someone notices when you’re missing – is a key protector of mental health. In London alone, community sport and physical activity create around £9 billion of social value each year, much of it through improved mental wellbeing and reduced loneliness. That sense of connection — of being seen, valued, and supported — is one of the most powerful protectors of mental health. Across London, community sport plays a vital role in creating these bonds. Every week, coaches and mentors witness the transformation that comes when young people realise they’re part of something bigger than themselves.
And as Paul Murphy, TackleLondon Liaison & Ambassador, explains:
A message for World Mental Health Day
This World Mental Health Day, we celebrate the link between sport and wellbeing — and the incredible difference a supportive team environment can make.
Every high five, every word of encouragement, every moment of inclusion matters. It reminds young people that they are not alone — that they are seen, valued, and part of something that believes in them.
At TackleLondon, rugby is more than a sport. It’s a vehicle for connection, confidence, and care — helping young people build not only skills for the game, but the tools they need for life.
If you or someone you know needs support:
NHS 111 – for immediate, 24/7 mental health advice or crisis support
Samaritans – call 116 123, anytime, day or night
Shout – text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential text support
Mind – visit mind.org.uk for information and support
Childline – for under-19s, call 0800 1111.
