On Tuesday 22nd August, Fulham FC’s Bernd Leno joined More Than a Game Football at Kingsmeadow Athletic & Sports Centre. More Than A Game Football is a free weekly activity run by Fulham FC Foundation focused on supporting the mental wellbeing of adults 18+.
Bernd took part in a question-and-answer session with the participants, speaking openly about his excitement at joining Fulham and his ambitions of becoming Germany’s Number 1. Bernd highlighted the necessity of his mental wellbeing during his challenges, and also his successes, pointing out the immense support from his family and friends.
He was asked about how he supports himself when faced with the inevitable challenges that come with professional football. Bernd was really honest about his experiences and explained that he always feels most in control when he’s on the pitch facing the next opponent. During a match he explained he can’t be distracted by the criticisms of social media and can just focus on the thing he loves; football.
Bernd loves being part of the Fulham family and recognised that mental wellbeing sessions at Fulham FC Foundation are important for the community, and that mental health affects everyone.
The session came just after the Everton game at Goodison Park, a game that Bernd excelled in and, without him, Fulham wouldn’t have picked up the three points. A participant asked how that win affected his confidence and mental wellbeing, and he said: “The gaffer came straight over to me when the final whistle blew and shouted in my ear 'You were amazing,' which as a goalkeeper you love to hear.”
Bernd was funny, enthusiastic, insightful and defiant that mental wellbeing is of the utmost importance to everyone.
“I think it’s important to speak about mental health because everyone has their own problems, so when we speak about it that will help open up and release these problems. Personally for myself, I choose to speak to family and friends about my personal problems.” - Bernd Leno, Fulham FC Goalkeeper
More Than a Game Football is a fun, safe and inclusive space for adults 18+ to play football and improve their mental health. At every session our qualified Fulham FC Foundation coaches will lead football activities in a group environment for people of all abilities to take part. One of our Mental Wellbeing Practitioners is always present to facilitate conversations and take part in activities. Each week will be one hour long with a range of activities like foot-tennis, small-sided games, crossbar challenge and often we have time to relax and have group discussions on topics such as coping with stress.
To find out more about More Than A Game visit fulhamfc.com/morethanagame
