Preparing Kids for Life Challenges and Personal Development

Key Themes

• Preparing kids for life's challenges
• Supporting individual development with care
• Giving importance to mental health
• Perspective and reality checks
• Humble and strong individuals
• Emotional literacy and regular conversations

Vision: Strong Young Genesis

• Building strong individuals ready for challenges
• Mental health support open forum
• Dealing with pressure from a young age

Mental Health Challenges

• Importance of talking about mental health
• Helping young men to express feelings
• Regular conversations on emotional well-being

Academy Island Metaphor

• Constructed with players and staff
• Common language for emotional literacy
• Visual form with designer input
• Magnetic map for players to locate themselves

Key Points on the Map

• Bay of Plenty: Success, new contracts, influx of money
• Island of Opportunity: Requires manager's support to reach
• Mount Challenge Inn: Facing challenges
• Head Loss: Confusion, struggles
• Winds of Change: Symbolizes transitions
• Low Point and Off the Map: Mental health reference, seeking help

Emotional Awareness

• Identifying current states and desired goals
• Map helps visualize highs and lows

Fun and Engagement

• Reduces stigma around mental health
• Encourages conversations in informal settings
• Normalizing struggles in top athletes

Supporting Each Other

• Encouraging open communication
• Club cares deeply for members
• Supporting individuals every moment