James McClean gets behind League of Ireland mental health campaign

The former Derry City winger, wearing his 2020 red and white Candy Stripes jersey, features in the 'Head in the Game' video urging all those involved in the local game to look after their mental health and talk about their struggles.

The campaign, which was launched on social media this week, is an initiative set up by a group of volunteers from Dundalk in response to the death of the hugely popular former Lilywhites groundsman and videographer who died by suicide last July.

His death shocked the footballing community in Ireland and those behind the 'Head in the Game' project have now called on League of Ireland players and fans to set aside their rivalries and come together to talk about mental health issues.

The script, an original poem entitled 'The Floodlights' was written by amateur football coach and former Dundalk kitman, Dean Arrowsmith and the video produced by Blah Blah Studio.

McClean, Man City and Ireland women's defender Megan Campbell, ex-Ireland international, Andy Reid, former Man United and Northern Ireland defender, Pat McGibbon and Shelbourne goalkeeper, Colin McCabe are among the stars who feature as they read out the poem aimed at League of Ireland fans, players, coaches, referees and anyone who may be struggling with mental health issues.

RTE commentator, Con Murphy and several podcasters and supporters, including Derry City fan, J.P. Fahy and others representing Dundalk, Shelbourne, St Pats, Galway, Longford and Bohemians, also appear in the video which aims to 'start the conversation' about mental health issues in the local game.

The late Harry Taafe's son, Shane appears just before McClean and he delivers a poignant message: 'We've seen some scores and near misses, celebrated with hugs and kisses; don't turn your floodlights off'.

A message on the Head in the Game campaign's Facebook page read: "We are very proud to have put together this video featuring supporters, commentators, podcasters and some current and ex professional players to get our message out there for mental health awareness with our original poem, "The Floodlights".

"We would like to thank all who took time out to help us with this video. We hope our message is clear that we are all in this together and will continue to work through our problems with the help of each other.

"In the next number of weeks, we will announce details of our first fundraiser, a virtual 5k that will take place at the end of the current League of Ireland Season. All money raised will go to our charity partners.

"Again we thank you all for your continued support in such a short space of time and we are excited to move forward with our efforts."

'The Floodlights'

The new season back will soon fade to black if the floodlights turn off

There will be no away dates with all of your mates if the floodlights turn off

There'll be no bag of cans on a bus full of fans if the floodlights turn off

There will be no Friday night lights and last minute delights if the floodlights turn off

There will be no singing from the stands with the rest of the fans if the floodlights turn off

There will be no cup final days when your favourite team plays if the floodlights turn off

There will be no post match discussions about last ditch tackle repercussions if the floodlights turn off

There will be no more 'over there', 'what's the score' or singing anymore if you turn your floodlights off

We've seen some scores and near misses celebrated with hugs and kisses; don't turn your floodlights off

We're in this together and we'll help you get better; don't turn your floodlights off

We're a family of supporters, our clubs, sons and daughters; don't turn your floodlights off

In the dark of night we can be your light; don't turn your floodlights off

You've been with us around the bend, we're with you as a comrade and a friend; don't turn your floodlights off

For all the heaviness you hide, we're here by your side; don't turn your floodlights off

Please don't cross the line we still have extra time; don't turn your floodlights off

This is not your final whistle

Please don't turn your floodlights off