2nd November 2023
On Thursday 12th October, we hosted #TalkaGoodGame, a day-long event which brought together SIII boys from 8 schools to enjoy a day of rugby and mental health workshops.
This event, which was first devised by Mr Houston - Head of SVI and Careers - while he was still teaching at Grange Academy, is designed to destigamtise mental health amongst young men, as well as providing them with positive role models and signposting them to the appropriate help should they need it.
As well as taking part in touch and contact rugby matches, the boys got to listen to a variety of excellent guest speakers, including former professional Scottish footballer Andy McLaren who spoke about his experiences with drugs and gambling and Jordan Daly, the co-founder of the Time for Inclusive Education (TIE) charity, who spoke about sexuality and homophobic language.
They rounded off the day with the presentation of the trophies:
Liam McGhee Memorial Quaich for Touch Rugby: Trinity High, Renfrew
Jack Burns Memorial Quaich for Contact Rugby: St Columba's White Team
We were delighted to be joined by the 2023/24 rugby captain from Grange Academy (Liam's school) to present the Liam McGhee Memorial Quaich. Rory B (SIV) and FP Angus R (Class of 2023) presented the Jack Burns Memorial Quaich, named in honour of SIII pupil Jack, who we lost in 2019.
This was an amazing event, which we hope will spark discussion, open up conversations and help to change the way we talk about mental health. We are now looking to launch a similar event for the SIII girls focused around hockey later in the academic year.
Our sincerest thanks to our speakers, SVI Mental Health Ambassadors, participating schools and event sponsors for helping to make this event so successful.
Event Sponsors:
Quaich Wood Crafts who provided the trophies
Fergusons Bakery for the rolls
Filshill for the water, crisps and generous donation towards the running of the event
Scottish Rugby for their continued support
Photos and videos by Shots by Sherrie.
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