Balmes to headline Read The Play breakfast

VFL/AFL figure and footy mastermind Neil Balme has been announced as a special guest to headline Read The Play’s annual fundraising breakfast.

A key player in Geelong’s successful premiership run from 2007-2011 and more recently with the Richmond Football Club, Mr Balme and hs son William will form half the panel at the breakfast at GMHBA Stadium on August 4.

Attendees will hear from Neil’s life in football and parenthood, while William will provide insight into his mental health journey and the creation of his documentary Letters to Anxiety.

“Letters to Anxiety is a very personal story and details the struggle and healing processes supported by a return to local football clubs and being around your mates,” Read The Play general manager Michelle Gerdtz said.

“We know those open conversations are critical in breaking down the stigma around mental health and that community clubs are a great place to feel supported, particularly when things aren’t going your way. This is exactly what Read the Play is all about.

“We want our young players to understand more about mental health issues and where to go for help and more importantly we want to encourage having the conversation and supporting your mates.”

The Balmes will also be joined by MC, Read the Play patron and Geelong Cats legend Cameron Ling, and Read The Play ambassadors Claudia Gunjaca and Sarah Elsworthy.

All funds raised at the breakfast will go towards supporting youth mental health education in local sporting clubs.

Mr Balme’s documentary Letters to Anxiety’ will air from 8.30-9am at the conclusion of the function.