As we approach the halfway point of the season, just a message expressing my thanks for all the support and encouragement I’ve received from you guys this season.
It is great to describe the action on a team that is continually improving under the guidance of Michael Duff. Of course, I miss doing commentary with Phil; after all, we have been friends for years, but I think everything has gone really well with Sam Avery and Charlie Goff. As you have heard, they are both exceptional commentators, who I expect will go on to great things.
Anyway, to cut to the chase, this is the time of year - evenings closing in, cold weather, feeling isolated - when people find themselves in a pretty dark and lonely place, perhaps without realising they are not alone.
As I’ve mentioned before, I honestly believe that my family and Wycombe Wanderers saved me when I was at my lowest ebb. Being a small part of the club has given me a tremendous lift. I won’t forget what you all have done collectively for me. I maintain that this is a very special football club. And bear in mind, as a journalist, I work with quite a few.
Nevertheless, I know I’m not the only person to have struggled with mental health issues. The signs are not always clear. Look out for each other. Don’t hesitate to either offer or accept help.
Once again, a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart.
We really do need a bench down at Adams Park, similar to those seen elsewhere, that says “Sit here if you don’t mind / would like chatting to someone else”.
At a football ground it would be so easy to strike up a conversation as you know you already have at least one thing in common with the other person.
Football clubs are increasingly on the front line of (mostly men’s) mental health and anything, however small, they can do to help alleviate loneliness is more than worth it.
If often think about people who come to the game alone, and maybe didn’t in the past.
This article was in the Guardian the other day and worth a read, touching on things like talking about mental health. Just generally quite heartwarming stuff.
Jeevsie you’re a top man mate! Been a pleasure the past few months working alongside you and people can learn a lot off you in many different ways! Appreciate the kind words and looking forward to the rest of the season
Long read but very apt, many in my part of the ground have stopped going, passed away or moved on. Names I forget but faces and stories I still recall.
You’re a great lad, Charlie. And a great commentator who is getting better all the time. The big thing for me, is that you want to learn. You’re in the right place to do that. The great thing about describing the games with you, Sam, and Phil beforehand, is that it’s great fun. We can’t do anything once the players have crossed the white line, but we can say what we see and try to entertain the people that are good enough to tune in and listen #Chairboys
Hell’s bells. Just read @Jeevesie’s opening message and all the comments to mrs micra. Voice got a bit croaky but I hadn’t expected to burst into tears when I finished reading. I think it must have been the post by @wwfcblue and being in the situation of those he remembers that have either died or are no longer able to get to matches. Happily, I’m only in the latter category!
PS hadn’t seen Brian’s latest message. I was, as usual, tapping laboriously away.
I’d love to see us doing more work with some great charities like the Samaritans, Andy’s Man Club, Suicide & Co to help break down the barriers on Men’s Mental Health and still support Women’s.
I’d happily sit on that bench and lend an ear. It’s National Mental Health First Aider day today, so also thanks to @Jeevesie for raising the topic and opportunity to raise a word of thanks to all the MHFAs around the UK.
It’s a very good training course and helps you to signpost and support others in their moments of need. Also the SFA (Suicide First Aid) course is excellent and hopefully making great strides to support everyone everyday when it comes to Suicide Prevention and bereaevement.
