Players with Dumfries ice hockey team Solway Sharks have launched a new initiative to show support for those with mental health issues.
The club, based at the Ice Bowl, has unveiled the Skate out of Darkness campaign in response to the rising challenge faced by many throughout the pandemic.
The Sharks have created a video and, with help from the local Samaritans, they are urging people to seek out support if they are feeling down or suicidal.
There are T-shirts backing the initiative and players’ helmets display a green ribbon to show support for mental health.
Club captain Struan Tonnar said “The idea of Skate out of Darkness came from the players themselves.
“Almost every one of the players either knows of someone or has been affected themselves with mental health issues at some point. I’m proud to be a part of this group of players, both on and off the ice.
“They recognise that they can play a part, even a small part, in helping others.
“The help and guidance we have received from our local Samaritans branch has been invaluable, as they have helped us with the wording in our video and offered signposting for people who are in need of help too.
“I want to thank them for their support in getting this project off the ground.”
Struan added: “The ice hockey ‘family’ is renowned worldwide and we want to extend that into our community and support as many people as we can.
“The players and the club plan a number of events this year to promote good mental health, so I would ask everyone in the south west to look out for what we have planned and to support us, and the Samaritans, to help others who might be struggling at this time.”
Sharks head coach, Martin Grubb, said: “I’m so proud of my players. They are aware that things have been tough for many over the period of lockdown especially. They are keen to make a difference and knowing these players, I know they will make a difference.”
The local branch of the Samaritans has a presence now at every Sharks home game for fans to find out more and to get involved with Skate Out of Darkness.
Ann Stephenson, director of Dumfries Samaritans, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Solway Sharks in this fantastic initiative.
“Suicide is the biggest killer of men aged 50 and under and three quarters of deaths by suicide are men.
“Our own research has found opportunities to help less well-off middle-aged men before they reach crisis point is often missed. We will have a range of resources available at all home games and our trained volunteers will also be on hand if anyone wants to talk to us privately and in confidence.
