Supporting player wellbeing and welfare

Player Wellbeing  Officer

At St Mary’s Sporting Club, we are committed to supporting our players on and off the field.

Our Player Wellbeing Officer, Andrea Douglas, provides a trusted and confidential point of contact for players who may need support, someone to talk to, or help connecting with local services.

How we support player wellbeing

  • We promote a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for all players.
  • We encourage open conversations about mental health and wellbeing.
  • We provide a trusted and confidential point of contact for players.
  • We support players through challenges, including injury, stress and personal issues.
  • We connect players with appropriate local and professional support services.
  • We encourage all members to look out for each other and seek help early.

When to reach out

You can contact the Player Wellbeing Officer if you are feeling overwhelmed, managing an injury, dealing with something outside of sport, worried about a teammate, or unsure where to get help.

No issue is too small. Sometimes having someone to listen, check in, or help you take the next step can make a real difference.

Contact

Andrea Douglas
Player Wellbeing Officer
Mobile: 0409 405 017
Email: andrea@geelongot.com.au

Support options

1. Immediate support (within the club)

This is the first step for most players:

  • Player Welbeing Officer (Andrea Douglas) – first point of contact
  • Coach or team manager (if appropriate)
  • Child Safeguarding Officer (Damian McKeegan) 
  • Trusted club leader or volunteer

Purpose: Early conversation, check-in, and understanding what support is needed.

2. Informal and peer support

For low to moderate concerns, where connection is key:

  • Teammates and peer networks
  • Family and friends
  • Club wellbeing initiatives (check-ins, safe spaces, training and education, special days and events)

Purpose: Reduce isolation, build connection, and encourage help-seeking early.

3. Student-specific support (for school and university players)

If players are studying, these are often the most accessible and appropriate services:

  • School wellbeing coordinators or counsellors
  • University student support services (counselling, health, success hubs)
  • Academic staff or course advisors (if study is impacted)

Purpose: Support linked to study, stress, transition and academic pressures.

4. Community and primary care services

For ongoing or moderate support needs:

Purpose: Professional assessment, mental health care plans, and structured support.

5. Specialist support services

For specific issues or targeted support.

Purpose: Address specific or complex needs with appropriate expertise.

6. Crisis and urgent support

For immediate risk or crisis situations.

Purpose: Immediate safety, crisis intervention and urgent care.