Football West appoints first Wellbeing Officer to assist clubs with mental health support

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TMH Think Mental Health


Football West has appointed its first Wellbeing Officer as part of Healthway’s Kick off the Conversation program.

Data and Research Analyst Andrew Ross will work with clubs to provide support and direction on mental health and wellbeing matters, as well as help drive a positive culture.

As the volunteer Wellbeing Officer, Andrew's responsibilities include being a primary point of contact for mental health and wellbeing issues, offering assistance and guidance to Football West staff and clubs’ representatives when required. Additionally, he will provide ongoing support and resources to members or clubs dealing with specific mental health challenges.

Kick Off The Conversation Think Mental Health
Football West Wellbeing Officer Andrew Ross

Mr Ross has seven years’ experience in voluntary work with young people, often in challenging situations. His credentials include being a Standard Mental Health First Aider with Mental Health First Aid Australia.

He has volunteered at music festivals, universities, schools and at leavers, providing care and support for young people.

“It’s rewarding to foster a positive peer pressure influence for drug and alcohol environments,” he said.

“I would like to extend my voluntary work and be a point of contact for clubs who seek assistance in the area of wellbeing and mental health.”

wellbeing officer
West Coast Cobras Sports Club Wellbeing Officer Anisa Leonard and her team

Clubs participating in Football West's Kick off the Conversation program are encouraged to assign a Wellbeing Officer to their club. 

While these volunteers are not required to be qualified professionals or mental health experts, they will receive training and tools to promote mental health awareness and direct individuals to appropriate resources and services. 

The following clubs have nominated their Wellbeing Officers as part of the Kick off the Conversation program:

  • Albany Sharks Football and Sporting Club appointed Emma “Brady” Miller
  • Chapman Athletic reappointed Senior Sergeant Christopher Martin as the club's Welfare and Wellbeing Officer
  • Bunbury Dynamos appointed Erwin Schavemaker
  • Dianella Spartans appointed head coach Daniel Micevski
  • Mandurah City appointed Judy McClean as their Welfare Officer
  • Northam Springfield appointed Rachel Hayes
  • West Coast Cobras Sports Club appointed Anisa Leonard
wellbeing officers
Wellbeing Officers Daniel Micevski(Dianella Spartans), Rachel Hayes (Northam Springfield), Erwin Schavemaker (Bunbury Dynamos), Judy McClean (Mandurah City), Christopher Martin (Chapman Athletic) and Emma “Brady” Miller (Albany Sharks Football and Sporting Club)

Football West would like to clarify that the role of a Wellbeing Officer is not to provide mental health advice or act as a substitute for professional assistance. Any concerns regarding mental health and wellbeing should be directed to qualified professionals such as general practitioners or psychologists. Additionally, any matters related to the Kick off the Conversation program should be directed to the partnership team at tmh@footballwest.com.au

To find out more about the Kick off The Conversation program and discover ways you and your club can champion mental health and wellbeing within the football community, visit https://www.footballwest.com.au/kick-conversation