07/09/2026
We talk about the knocks. We talk about the injuries. We talk about the wins and the losses.
But do we talk honestly about how we’re actually doing?
Rugby is built on trust, connection and having your teammates’ backs. That shouldn’t stop when the conversation gets difficult.
Creating psychological safety in rugby means creating an environment where players, coaches, volunteers and everyone involved in the club feel able to say:
💬 “I’m struggling.”
💬 “I’m not okay.”
💬 “I need some help.”
💬 “Something’s been bothering me.”
…without fear of being judged, ridiculed or seen as weak.
5 things rugby clubs can do to tackle stigma:
1️⃣ Make talking normal
Don’t wait for a crisis. Build regular conversations about mental wellbeing into training, team meetings and club life.
2️⃣ Train your coaches
Coaches are often the first people to notice when something has changed. Give them the confidence and skills to start a supportive conversation. If your club would like mental health to first aid training drop us a message.
3️⃣ Challenge the banter
Rugby culture can be brilliant — but jokes and “just having a laugh” can sometimes stop people from speaking up. Call out language that reinforces the idea that asking for help is weakness.
4️⃣ Create clear routes to support
Make sure players and club members know who they can speak to and where they can go for further support. Don’t make someone who is struggling figure it out alone.
5️⃣ Lead from the top
Club committees, coaches and senior players set the tone. When leaders openly acknowledge mental health and model honest conversations, it gives everyone else permission to do the same.
🏉 A strong club isn’t one where nobody struggles.
It’s one where people know they don’t have to struggle alone.
Let’s start those important conversations. Let’s show we
