Physical health and mental health go hand in hand and exercise has been proven to help improve mental health. Good mental health has benefits for Physical health and sport as it improves our decision making, stops us blaming ourselves and others if we make a mistake, makes us want to train and improve and makes us want to be with friends who have the same interests.

Once we know what the future looks like in terms of playing rugby and being able to meet, Danny and Mat will be looking to deliver a set of Wellbeing and Mental Health sessions for the HCRC senior squads however it will be open whole club, players coaches and parents to attend if they wish.

What if the role of a MHFA?

Our role is the same as any first aider, to prevent further injury or loss of life until a professional can take over a situation. We are not councillors or therapists however we are trained to listen to people in crisis and help guide them to finding the rights support, we are also available to advise anyone who may know someone who is facing mental health challenges.

Bio's

Mat Mason-Hames (2nd team manager/coach)

I’ve been playing rugby since I was 14 on and off. Last season I switched over to play for Haslemere having spent 7 years at Overton Rugby club and prior to that playing for Basingstoke. I have spent most of my rugby life playing as either wing or Outside centre but recently I have been trying my hand at Flanker and it’s a big change in the style of play and fitness needed.
I am an Adult Mental health First Aider and I’m qualified by MHFA England to deliver the adult training course. I am also an authorised trainer for Mind (the mental health charity). I run a company called Mindset whose aim is to help companies introduce wellbeing programmes and to provide training to managers and directors.

Danny Leeds (1st XV captain)

I’ve been involved with the club for just over a year. I play either in the Second Row or Number 8.

I am a teacher by trade having worked with a range of young people aged 6-18. Specifically working with young people with Social, Emotional Mental Health difficulties.
I also own DL Coaching - working with groups and individuals on performance, leadership and mindset change. I am a qualified Youth Mental Health First Aider and am now embarking on becoming a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be featuring stories, focusing on the personal side of Mental Health, from those in the club who are willing to share them. The first in our series of stories comes from Dan Brockhurst (Senior Squad Head coach) – click here to find out what he has to say about his Mental Health

See also a list of Key Contacts covering Mental Health, Money Worries, Food and Relationships that will be able to support you if you find yourself or someone you know struggling