GIVING CLUB WELFARE THE ATTENTION IT DESERVES

Sport is great for our mental health. From a young age, we’re told: feeling down? Get your body moving. Stressed? Do some exercise. Tired? Go to training. The science backs this up: physical activity releases endorphins, those little bursts of energy and happiness that improve our mood. For many, this is a familiar feeling—a sense of freedom and joy that keeps us coming back. But what happens when the environment meant to uplift us falters?

Within England Lacrosse, all registered clubs are required by the England Lacrosse Association (ELA) to appoint a welfare officer. This individual’s role is to provide an impartial point of contact for members to raise concerns about their own or others' well-being. However, the current framework has significant gaps. Welfare officers are not required to undergo formal training to prepare them for the complexities of their role or the sensitive issues they may encounter. While the ELA website does host resources on welfare, these are far less comprehensive than those available for safeguarding under-18s or adults at risk.

This lack of formalised training creates vulnerabilities within clubs. Coaches and officials must hold qualifications to perform their duties, so why is this not the case for welfare officers? An unqualified welfare officer may unintentionally miss key signs of distress or offer ill-informed advice, potentially exacerbating a club member’s struggles. While errors by officials or coaches, such as missing a dangerous play or overworking players, can cause harm, the stakes for welfare officers are equally high. Addressing mental health and well-being requires a thoughtful and informed approach; anything less is insufficient.

The disparity in how mental and physical health are prioritised is a broader societal issue. While the necessity of physical safety is widely understood and acted upon, mental well-being often takes a backseat. This disconnect is mirrored in sport, where welfare often feels like an afterthought. Without proper training, the welfare officer role risks becoming a box-ticking exercise rather than a meaningful resource for players.

This oversight feels particularly jarring within the tight-knit lacrosse community. For many players, the sport is more than a pastime; it’s a lifeline. The sense of camaraderie and belonging is undeniable, yet this closeness can also breed exclusion. Those on the periphery may struggle to feel connected, a challenge that can be amplified by the insular nature of smaller sports communities.