Athletes in high demand for school mental health program 

Two Australian volleyballers are part of a mental health program built around elite athletes delivering powerful talks to high school students, with the initiative preparing for its biggest year yet with close to 100 schools signed up for 2025. 

The AIS Mental Fitness Program, which is a joint venture with the Black Dog Institute, has  seen participation numbers increase by almost 200% since launching six years ago. 

Last year, more than 20,000 students sat down with some of the nations’ top athletes to  learn about their personal battles and stories of resilience. 

Executive General Manager of AIS Performance Matti Clements said the programs’ growing  demand is a credit to the athletes.  

“When an athlete who is often viewed as invincible shows vulnerability it captures people’s  attention. These athletes are helping send an important message that it’s courageous to  speak up and seek help,” Clements said. 

Research from the Black Dog Institute reveals more than 75 per cent of mental health issues  develop before the age of 25, highlighting the significance of tackling the subject from an early age. 

Over the next 12 months the athletes will visit high schools and sports clubs across the  country to share evidence-based strategies on how to keep mentally fit.  

The program enters a new chapter this year, with 25 national athletes appointed as ambassadors including beach volleyballer and Gold Coast Commonwealth Gold Medalist Christopher McHugh and beach volleyball athlete Solomon Bushby.

Chris McHugh said he is looking to help make a difference and help provide younger athletes with some strategies he has gained over his 18 year journey in elite sport. 

“I am hoping to make a difference in this space through using my lived experiences to open the door for discussion amongst students and destigmatise mental health in younger people, but to also equip them with some strategies to help others around them or themselves when times are tough,” said McHugh.    

Schools can book a free session via the AIS website here: Mental Fitness Program |  Australian Institute of Sport

Click here to see full list of Ambassadors