The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) is taking a proactive approach to protecting the mental health of children involved in the sport. According to EFA CEO Frederick Mngomezulu, football has a massive reach among children, placing the sport in a position of responsibility to safeguard their mental wellbeing. Mngomezulu made these remarks during a workshop facilitated by the Ministry of Health and UNICEF at the UN building in Mbabane. The workshop aimed to promote children's mental health and wellbeing through football.
Mngomezulu emphasized that football, after schools and other education institutions, is one of the biggest platforms involving children in the country. As such, it is crucial for the sport to go beyond developing players' technical abilities. He stressed that the mental health and wellbeing of every child must be protected, supported, and taken seriously. The EFA CEO linked mental preparedness and emotional intelligence to sporting performance, stating that football demands more than physical ability from young players.
Coaches play a vital role in promoting children's mental health, according to Mngomezulu. He noted that coaching is the first requirement of developing a top athlete or player and as such, coaches have the greatest influence in the livelihood of a human being. Mngomezulu highlighted the importance of equipping coaches with the necessary knowledge and skills to support children, especially given football's widespread following.
The EFA has partnered with UNICEF to use football as a platform to raise awareness, strengthen support systems, train people working with children, and help communities understand that mental health should be treated with the same seriousness as physical health. Mngomezulu also emphasized the role of club public relations officers (PROs), stating that their communication platforms can be used to promote positive messages about children's wellbeing.
The workshop brought together EFA coaches and club PROs, providing an opportunity for them to engage on ways football can contribute to the mental wellbeing of children and young players. Ministry of Health National Mental Health Focal Person Sindiso Bhembe thanked the participants and the EFA for their involvement in the initiative, expressing encouragement by the response and level of engagement from participants.
Mngomezulu called for a collaborative effort from families, schools, coaches, health workers, communities, and leaders to work together in protecting children's wellbeing. He emphasized that football reaches children where they are, bringing them together, and teaching teamwork, courage, discipline, respect, and resilience.
The EFA's initiative aims to promote children's mental health and wellbeing through football, recognizing the sport's significant impact on young lives. By prioritizing mental health, the EFA seeks to develop children who are not only skilled players but also resilient enough to cope with the demands of life. The partnership with UNICEF and the Ministry of Health is a step towards strengthening awareness of children's mental health within football.
Key points
- EFA CEO Frederick Mngomezulu urges coaches and clubs to prioritize children's mental wellbeing alongside UNICEF and Ministry of Health.
