Remember December tournament in sunny Nelson
Sport and recreation can improve poor mental health and it also puts smiles on faces like that of Richmond Tennis Club members Karlene Magill, Jane Geldard, Leanne Greep, Annette Bormolini. Photo: Ali Telford.
Richmond Tennis Club members are still reeling over the sudden loss of valued members of their community, but have resolved to tackle the issue respectfully and proactively.
In association with Nelson Bays Tennis, KIA Nelson and the New Zealand Mental Health Foundation NZ, the Club is hosting a weekend tennis tournament on 10-11 December, in Richmond.
Open to players nationwide, the Remember December Doubles Tournament has already attracted players from as far afield as Queenstown.
“Remember December is our way of remembering much-loved club members,” says Richmond Tennis Club Captain Annette Bormolini.
“It also provides us with an opportunity to raise funds for mental health and create awareness within the wider tennis community.”
Almost a third of New Zealanders currently suffer poor mental wellbeing.
Earlier this year 36% of New Zealanders reported having poor mental wellbeing, a stark increase from 27% a year earlier.
While the statistics are alarming, the ripple effect goes much wider, with families and sometimes whole communities impacted by the consequences of unchecked mental health challenges
Annette says that while many within the tennis community have been affected personally, it remains an issue that is not freely talked about.
“Remember December is our way of contributing to mental health awareness and, at the same time, being proactive in offering solutions to finding mental wellbeing.
“Tennis is such a healthy sport that can be played at any level and one in which whole families can participate.”
Annette says being active is a great first step in combating stress and tennis is a fun way of maintaining exercise.
“What better way to spend a weekend, than enjoying sunny Nelson and participating in the Remember December Doubles Tournament!”
For more information about mental health visit www.men-talhealth.org.nz. To talk to a trained counsellor free text or call 1737 day or night.
To participate in the tournament please contact [email protected] or donate a little here https://events.mentalhealth.org.nz/event/richmond-tennis-club-remember-december/