A seminar dealing with the topic will be at Bacchus Marsh Town Hall on Monday, July 9.

AFL Goldfields regional general manager Rod Ward said a panel comprising football and netball coaches would examine mental health issues coaches have to deal with in their own right, as well as coaching players with mental health issues.

The panel will feature former Sandringham Dragons TAC Cup talent manager, Coburg VFL coach and former North Melbourne AFL player Leigh Adams, former Diggers Rest football premiership coach Shaun Sims and AFL Coaches’ Association health and welfare reprresentative Dr Mandy Ruddock-Hudson.

Netball Victoria will also be represented

Ward said the mental health of football and netball coaches had been overlooked and it was important to promote awareness of the issue and as much open discussion as possible on the subject.

“It’s a serious national issue.”

He said AFL Goldfields wanted to ensure that the strongest possible support network was in place to help coaches deal with the pressures of their roles and helping others under their watch.

Ward said football and netball coaches from throughout the region would have an opportunity to ask questions and share information.

He said panellists would each talk for 10 to15 minutes about their experiences with their own mental health and coaching others with mental health issues. 

Djerriwarrh Health Services with also make further information and resources available.

The seminar is planned for a 7pm start.