It’s Mental Health Awareness Month and what better way to recognize it than to highlight seven pioneering initiatives spearheaded by Tennis Canada.
Here are seven ways Tennis Canada is prioritizing mental health and embracing its mission to improve the wellbeing of tennis players across Canada.
1. Mental Health Strategy
Earlier this year, Tennis Canada officially partnered with the University of Ottawa, Own the Podium, the Canadian Centre for Mental Health and Sport, and Game Plan, to implement a long-term strategy for its athletes, coaches, parents, and staff. Tennis Canada is the first National Sport Organization to unveil a strategy based on the National Mental Health Strategy for High Performance Sport in Canada.
2. Positivity Postcards
Positivity postcards were one of several initiatives that landed on the grounds of the National Bank Open as part of the Mental Timeout initiative supported by Beneva in 2022. Fans have the opportunity to connect with their favourite players by writing a heartfelt message or even simple words of encouragement, which tournament staff deliver to the locker room. Meanwhile, veteran Andy Murray and Paula Badosa were among those who received positive messages from fans.
3. Positive Court Pledge
Another initiative found at the National Bank Open is the Positive Court Pledge. The Pledge is a written promise to create a supportive, safe and nurturing environment for everyone involved in the world of tennis. Sign the pledge here.
4. Player Ambassadors
Tennis Canada is proudly welcoming back Canadian tennis stars Bianca Andreescu, Alexis Galarneau, and Rob Shaw as official ambassadors of the Mental Timeout initiative supported by Beneva. Each ambassador brings a unique perspective to the importance of mental health in performance and self-care.
5. The Player Relaxation Zone
The National Bank Open offers a Player Relaxation Zone, a quiet and serene space found on the tournament site exclusively for players to unwind, meditate, or focus their mind ahead of matches. Various amenities like diffusors, weighted blankets, massage guns, and more are available for player use.
6. New Wellness Director
Tennis Canada appointed Marie-Josée Bellemare as its Wellness Director last May. In this role, Bellemare works closely with athletes, coaches, parents, and staff to provide wellness and lifestyle support and help implement the mental health strategy.
7. Yoga for Fans
As part of the Mental Timeout initiative, the National Bank Open offers yoga sessions for fans to participate in. The benefits of yoga for mental health and overall well-being are well-documented.
