Derry clubs urged to 'Break the Silence' on mental health as part of Movember Ahead of the Game

The GAA and GPA alongside Movember, the leading men’s health charity have launched the second phase of the Movember Ahead of the Game 2025 programme directly addressing the critical issue of mental fitness and resilience within Irish society. 

Delivered through local GAA clubs in Derry by facilitator Anton Tohill, Movember Ahead of the Game has reached almost 9,500 young players, parents, and coaches in all 32 counties and teaches participants to understand mental health, build resilience, and support one another both on and off the pitch. 

Advocates John Maher (Galway), Saoirse McCarthy (Cork) and Dan Morrissey (Limerick) were all on hand to support Anton at the launch of the mental health programme, in Croke Park. Saoirse and Anton are two of the facilitators on the nationwide programme. 

Research shows that 6 out of 15 men have never spoken about their mental health (source). Movember, the GAA and GPA are calling on clubs across the country to ‘break the silence’ and don’t let almost* half their teams be silenced. 

Now in its second year, Movember Ahead of the Game has already made a lasting impact on communities across Derry.  

Movember Ahead of the Game facilitator and Derry footballer Anton Tohill said: “As a facilitator, I see first-hand how much this programme means to young players, parents, and coaches in Derry. It opens up conversations that might never have happened otherwise. Mental fitness is just as important as training drills or match tactics — and the impact it’s having in our community is something really special.” 

This next phase aims to go even further, giving more clubs, more communities and more young people the tools to look after their mental wellbeing – just like they would their physical fitness. 

The programme’s interactive, evidence-based approach ensures that mental fitness isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a key pillar of player development.  

Mental health is part of the game. Whether you're kicking points, coaching from the sideline or cheering from the stands, we all have a role to play in breaking the silence. 

President of the Gaelic Athletic Association, Jarlath Burns said: “The GAA is committed to the mental health and wellbeing of our players, and we are proud to continue our partnership with Movember and the GPA in the Movember Ahead of the Game programme. Mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness, and by encouraging open conversations and providing support, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our players.” 

Tom Parsons, CEO, Gaelic Players Association said: “As athletes, we often focus on improving our physical performance, but mental health plays an equally crucial role in our success. The Movember Ahead of the Game programme is about normalising these conversations and providing players with the tools and support they need to thrive both on and off the field. We are proud to work alongside Movember and the GAA to create a positive change in how we approach mental wellbeing in sport.” 

Sarah Ouellette, Country Director, Movember, added: “At Movember, we are deeply committed to changing the conversation around men’s health, and mental health is a key area of focus. Through the Movember Ahead of the Game programme, we’re not just raising awareness; we’re providing the tools and support needed to help athletes build resilience and seek help when needed. We’re thrilled to see the impact this initiative is already having, and together with the GAA and GPA, we can continue to lead the way in creating a culture where mental wellbeing is prioritized at every level.” 

For more information, visit Ahead of the Game