Drogheda United will be going green for their Premier Division clash against Derry City FC this Friday, September 27th as part of a suicide awareness campaign to raise awareness of the resources available to support those experiencing mental health difficulties.
The Drogs action is part of a community awareness campaign throughout September by the Policing and Drugs Subgroup of Drogheda Implementation Board, led by members of An Garda Siochana and HSE Mental Health Services.
Having previously named their stadium ‘Head In The Game Park’ for three Seasons in support of a movement set up by Irish football fans in an endeavour to raise awareness of the importance of mental health across the football community, this campaign aligns very strongly with The Drog’s values.
This particular campaign though is fan-led with the staunch supporters group ‘The Famous 45 Ultra’s’ leading from the front for the Louth Football Club on the initiative.
In her commendation of the young fans, Club Chairperson Joanna Byrne has outlined a series of events that will unfold before and during the upcoming fixture on Friday.
“Sadly, we are at a crisis point in our society where suicide and battles with mental health has darkened all of our doors in some way. I couldn’t be prouder of our fans, and The F45U in particular for their work on this campaign.
“The build-up of the match on Friday will see the lads promote the Sea Change Green Ribbon Campaign and distribute Green Ribbons, posters and information cards outlining resources and supports available who those who need it, to everyone entering Weaver’s Park for the match.
“They have also liaised with the teams and I’m pleased to confirm both The Drog’s and Derry will warm up in green t-shirts with the hashtag #EndTheStigma, and I want to pay particular thanks to Derry City FC for coming onboard and participating in this too. As Kick-Off approaches, the Ultra’s will then unveil a TIFO Display in line with the messaging of the campaign.
Pictured at the launch of the Drogheda United Go Green for Suicide Awareness campaign are (from left): Derek Pepper from Shine, Garda Sergeant Yvette McCormack, Drogs Chairperson Joanna Byrne, F45U members Kieran Lyons, Dean O’Reilly, and Nathan O’Connor, First Team Manager Kevin Doherty, Garda Inspector Declan Monaghan and Grainne Berrill of Drogheda Implementation Board.
This is not the first major community based project our Ultra’s have driven, and to have fans and young men that are so aware of the huge challenges our society is facing makes me very proud.
“It’s always been said that there’s great potential for our club and the fan’s to collectively make a difference in our communities and endeavours like this do just that. Collaborative projects between the fans and the Gardai also go a long way in breaking down barriers between youngsters and the guards, which in itself is exceptionally worthwhile.
“The group led by Dean O’Reilly, Nathan O’Connor and Kieran Lyons have poured their hearts into ensuring Drog’s had a place at the table on this campaign and the Club has been happy to facilitate and back them in that.
“We’re asking all of our fans attending to wear something Green and I’ve no doubt the fans will rally behind the group on Friday with this and with their display and show everyone that Drogheda is United in our support of #EndTheStigma Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness.”
