Unlocking a sporting club’s potential: a whole club approach to youth mental health promotion from the perspectives of club stakeholders

Community youth sporting clubs in Australia may play an important role in addressing poor youth mental health, yet their involvement in mental health initiatives remains limited. With previous research focusing predominately on a coaches’ role in mental health promotion, limited attention has been given to the broader club environment. A whole club approach considers individual, relational and systematic factors influencing a club’s engagement in mental health initiatives. This study adopted a qualitative descriptive methodology, guided by a socioecological lens, to explore community club stakeholders’ perspectives on mental health promotion within clubs. Twenty-three semi-structured interviews were conducted with club stakeholders, including coaches, trainers, presidents, and parents. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, with three main themes identified: (1) responsibility recognised, meaningful sustained action required, (2) building a culture worth staying for, and (3) strengthening the connection between performance and health. The themes highlighted that while a club’s role in mental health promotion is widely recognised, few have embedded it into practice. Unlocking a club’s potential requires a collective, multilayered approach tailored to club readiness. Efforts should capitalise on diverse avenues to promote mental health, foster shared responsibility, and create a safe culture through informal and formal leaders. Bridging the gap between how clubs approach physical and mental health and performance while aligning with core club priorities is also required. Future research should further explore the dynamic layers of a club environment, including youth players, and utilise co-design frameworks to integrate mental health initiatives within clubs.