Soccer Match Turns Into Mental Health Awareness Event in Minnesota

On Tuesday evening, the boys varsity soccer game between White Bear Lake Area High School and Cottage Grove’s Park High School was about much more than competition. The match became a platform for mental health awareness, an issue that continues to impact countless students and young athletes across Minnesota.

White Bear Lake’s varsity coach and history teacher, Taelynn Gittin, was the driving force behind the idea. For her, the cause is deeply personal. “I thought, we have a voice and platform, so let’s bring awareness to it,” she said. Gittin explained that during her own years as a college athlete, she faced struggles with mental health. That experience, coupled with what she sees now among students, has shaped her commitment to make conversations about mental well-being more open. “We’re in an endemic of mental health crisis for students and student athletes,” she said.

The event created a powerful moment on the field. Players, fans, staff, and community members from both schools joined together wearing shirts that read “Mental Health Matters.” The statement was simple but carried weight, showing solidarity and a shared commitment to a cause that touches lives far beyond the soccer pitch.

For many of the players, the game was a reminder that mental health is not just an athlete’s issue, but a human issue. “We don’t talk about it as much as I think we should,” said junior player Grayson Anderson. “I know it’s just not athletes, it’s everybody.” His words echoed the feelings of many who believe that while progress has been made in addressing mental health, much more still needs to be done to normalize these conversations.

The effort also received support from organizations dedicated to mental health services. Prairie Care, a psychiatric care provider for children, teens, and adults across Minnesota, took part in the event. Their presence highlighted the growing role schools and communities can play in connecting families to resources. “When school starts, it becomes a stressor in young kids’ lives. The school year can be a tough time,” said Kristy Weisser of Prairie Care, noting how academic and social pressures often intensify challenges for students.

A tribute was also made to those who have lost their lives to suicide, a sobering reminder of the real and devastating impact of untreated mental health struggles. For Gittin and others involved, it was important to recognize the pain that families and communities continue to endure, while also sending a message of hope and support. “A lot of people have been touched by mental health issues,” Gittin said. “If we can impact one person today and get the information out to at least one person today, then it will be a successful event.”

The importance of such awareness is underscored by recent data. According to the 2022 Minnesota Student Survey, nearly 44 percent of students in grades eight, nine, and 11 reported experiencing mental distress. These numbers reflect a growing trend that schools and communities cannot ignore. Events like Tuesday’s soccer match are one way to break the stigma, create dialogue, and show young people that they are not alone.

What began as a regular fall soccer game became something far more meaningful: a reminder that even in moments of competition, unity and compassion can take center stage. By using their platform to shine a light on mental health, the students and staff of White Bear Lake and Park High School proved that the message of “Mental Health Matters” is not just a slogan—it’s a call to action.

Latest News

Follow us on facebook

Business

Related Articles

Lake Region State College and Altru Heal...

Lake Region State College (LRSC) and Altru Health System have strengthened their partnership with th...

Minnesota School Boards Urge State to Fo...

More than 100 school board members across Minnesota are urging the state to comply with federal rule...