Doyle marks Mental Health Awareness Week

3 min read

17th May 2024

Following his first season in the Black Country, Tommy Doyle described how important mental health is and the importance of talking to someone.

As part of Mental Health Awareness Week and supporting the Premier League’s Inside Matters campaign, Doyle met up with Wolves Foundation’s Head 4 Health participants and engaged with them in a bowling activity.

Head 4 Health, supported by the Premier League and PFA Community Fund with additional funding from City of Wolverhampton Council, hosts workshops on mental health, but also focuses on physical activities including the likes of badminton, golf and walking.

Doyle spoke about the importance of talking when struggling.

He said: “I think it can be that weight that is lifted off your shoulders.

“Especially for me to come here and interact with people who might not be feeling as good as they would like to.

“I think it’s important we communicate with each other, and everyone can help each other.”

Our @PFA community champion, @Tommy_Doyle8 heads out with the Head 4 Health group for a game of bowling @PLCommunities x @wwfcfoundation pic.twitter.com/IPZSXGymqk
— Wolves (@Wolves) May 17, 2024

Doyle was also presented with the PFA Community Champion award at Wolves’ last home game against Crystal Palace, alongside Wolves Women’s Ellie Wilson, highlighting their commitment to the community.

“It’s nice, I think as a footballer it’s good to understand we can have a positive impact on people’s lives so it’s good to come here today and put a smile on people’s faces.

“Hopefully when they go home, they are happier than they were before and know there are positives in life which you can take.”

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week theme is movement, with regular activity proven to positively impact physical and mental health.

“We wanted to do something different rather than sitting and talking at Molineux and trying to get people out and about, people might not come and speak about their feelings, but this can take their mind off things and have a laugh and a joke which helps,” says Foundation health and wellbeing manager Rachel Smith.

“As well as the workshops we deliver as part of Head 4 Health, we also know how much moving more can help boost our mood, improve self-esteem and reduce stress and anxiety. It can even help us to sleep better as well.”

“It is great for the participants as many of them are Wolves fans, Tommy has been brilliant and completely bought in to what we do.”

Written by Thomas Gibson

"A football club is so important to the local community, especially when you’re a one-club city like we are, and the Foundation’s initiatives and activities are second to none."

Gary O'Neil | Wolves Head Coach

"Without Wolves Foundation I wouldn't be here today, that's for certain."

John Martin | Head 4 Health participant

"As a lifelong Wolves fan, to represent the Club and Foundation is something I'll cherish forever."

Daz James | Wolves Disability FC

"It is amazing to be out there meeting people and having some fun. It is really important for Wolves to have this connection with the fans and to see the happiness in their faces."

Toti Gomes | Wolves Defender

"Savannah absolutely loves the group. The staff are committed to making every single session fun and welcoming."

Natasha | Healthy Goals parent

"It’s special because it's my club and I’m so proud to be from Wolves as well. I can see the projects and all the work Wolves Foundation are doing and I know it makes such an impact, so to even be a little part of that and to help out where I can – it's so exciting."

Amber Sandhu | Broadcaster and Foundation Ambassador

"It’s huge for the school, I can’t speak highly enough of Wolves Foundation and the opportunities that they give us."

Mr Robinson | Woodsetton School

“I think all football clubs should be the beating heart of their communities and Wolves, through the Foundation, manages to do that."

Johnny Phillips | Sky Sports Presenter and Foundation Ambassador

"We get loads of different opportunities with a Premier League club. I feel really privileged to be a part of it."

Mustafa | Football & Education College Academy student

"Frank has Alzheimer’s Disease and when he was first diagnosed we felt lost and alone. Attending Molineux Memories is a lifeline for both of us; it is run by friendly, committed staff who ensure that everyone is included and enjoys themselves."

Frank and Alison | Molineux Memories

"To come here and be hands on with the kids is unreal. Working with Wolves and the Foundation is a blessing and I'm honoured. It feels surreal sometimes but it's the best feeling."

S-X | Music Producer and Foundation Ambassador

"It's good to give back what you got. Football and the Wolves Foundation help me, so I like to help the community."

Taye | Premier League Kicks

"Wolves has definitely helped my personal development, but now also helps me to develop people I work with. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the opportunities Wolves Foundation have given me."

Carl Ackasovs | Wolves Foundation