the official website

#oneteamonedream

newmains united football club

Cup lands Breathing Space support

BREATHING SPACE are backing Newmains United’s pre-season tournament – and Paul Davies hopes it can help spread the word about mental health.

United have organised a six-team round robin competition with Lanarkshire sides Carluke Rovers, Forth Wanderers, Lesmahagow, Royal Albert and Bellshill Athletic.

They kickstart their preparations for their West of Scorland League campaign with a home game against Rovers this Saturday, which will be played at the Wishaw Sports Centre (kick-off 2pm).

Breathing Space – Scotland’s mental health awareness organisation – have agreed to support the event and will present a trophy to the winners next month.

After another long spell being unable to play football, co-boss Davies wants the tournament to contribute to making a difference, especially with fans able to go along to watch.

He said: “After putting the tournament together I’m delighted Breathing Space will now be partners.

“The pre-season tournament is an exciting period for the clubs involved. It sees us returning to games and hopefully spectators will be able to return to football too.

“But the partnership with Breathing Space shows their continued support to the communities and regions they operate in.

“The last 15 months have been tough mentally for everyone and we want to show our support and gratitude to Breathing Space for the work they do.

“Hopefully their support of the event will help promote their message and football can act as an engagement tool to help anyone who wants assistance during hard times.”

Breathing Space National Development Officer Lisa-Jane Dock said: “The Breathing Space Cup is a new competition to highlight the benefits sport and exercise can have on mental health.

“We also want to let people know that the Breathing Space phone line is available to anyone across Lanarkshire struggling with their mental health.

“The cup marks an important return to football for clubs across the region and we’re pleased to be working closely with Newmains United and the wider community to promote these positive mental wellbeing messages.”

Anyone looking to speak to Breathing Space can call 0800 838587 or get more details at www.breathingspace.scot