VANTAGE BLACK STICKS PARTNER WITH I AM HOPE
The partnership, which has been driven by the players, highlights the commitment of the Vantage Black Sticks to this cause and will see the teams and the organisation work together to raise awareness about the importance of mental health.
I Am Hope, founded by Mike King, works tirelessly to normalise conversations about mental health, as well as providing free counselling for young people across Aotearoa through the Gumboot Friday initiative.
Nic Woods, from the men’s team, said, “This partnership symbolises our commitment to use our platform for good. As players, we are privileged to have a voice and to be able to use that voice to raise awareness and create positive change is truly humbling.”
Frances Davies, from the women’s team, also expressed her enthusiasm. “This is about more than just raising funds – it’s about raising awareness, understanding, and empathy for those grappling with mental health issues. We are proud to be standing side-by-side with I Am Hope in this mission.”
King voiced his appreciation for the selection, stating, “I am honoured that the Black Sticks have chosen I Am Hope / Gumboot Friday as their charity partner. The fact that this was chosen by the players themselves means a lot to me and the organisation. We are grateful for the support in our crusade to make counselling available to all young people 25 years and under! This is a community effort!”
Meanwhile HNZ CEO Anthony Crummy is proud to support this player led initiative and is looking forward to building awareness of I Am Hope throughout the hockey community. “Our Vantage Black Sticks are fantastic role models, and this is a great opportunity to support our players for social good. We care deeply about the communities that we are part of, and this partnership is an opportunity to support positive change.”
The partnership will officially kick off during the upcoming Oceania Cup in Whangarei, where I Am Hope will have a strong presence, as well as the Black Sticks teams warming up in I Am Hope t-shirts.
The Vantage Black Sticks are deeply committed to creating a better world both on and off the field and are thrilled to take this next step in their community engagement with the partnership with I Am Hope.