Bigger than Football: Roosters Working to Tackle Mental Fitness

When Daniel Tupou made his NRL debut for the Roosters 11 years ago, discussions about mental health and wellbeing were far less frequent.  

There was a certain stigma surrounding the topic and meaningful conversations were limited - but so much has changed since 2012.  

This week, the Roosters will take on the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles for the second annual Gotcha4Life Cup, putting aside their on-field rivalry to share an important message about building mental fitness.  

Following the launch of the 2023 Gotcha4Life Cup on Monday, Tupou reflected on how the conversations about mental fitness have changed throughout his career.  

“It wasn’t a comfortable [subject] to talk about back then and I think now the numbers are sort of growing and I can see it’s taken a big step from 2011. It’s awesome to see,” he said. 

“It’s about letting people know that we’re supportive and we’re right behind them in whatever situation any person would be going through.” 

“We know mental fitness is a big problem in this day and age and it’s sort of just about supporting others and getting around people and being open enough to come forward and speak about it.”  

Founded by media personality and avid Roosters’ supporter Gus Worland in 2017, Gotcha4Life is a not-for-profit organisation who deliver mental fitness programs that educate and empower local communities, with a goal of reducing suicide rates.  

Their programs work to create meaningful mateship and building emotional muscle with a renewed focus on early intervention, encouraging people to be vulnerable and see the power of prevention through connection.  

Roosters Skipper James Tedesco echoed the veteran winger’s sentiment, explaining the importance of being vulnerable and having conversations with your support network. 

“I’ve done a lot of work with Gus [Worland] over the years, helping with the foundation," he said. 

“It’s really important, obviously building mental health and building mental fitness especially in this environment and especially with men. 

“Just having that honest conversation and making sure you’ve got your mates in those tough times.”

Worland addressed the Roosters squad on Monday, discussing the personal reasons behind starting Gotcha4Life and the eye-opening statistics about suicide in Australia.  

“The number one way to die if you’re a young Australian male is suicide and we have to do more about it,” he said. 

“It’s important that the players recognise that the game is important but looking after each other off the field is even more important.” 

Proud Roosters Platinum Partner Unibet - who have generously donated $100,000 to the charity - will graciously forego their back of jersey space to accommodate for Gotcha4Life in Round 23.  

Player-issued and signed jerseys are being auctioned off, with all proceeds going to the Gotcha4Life Foundation.

Place your bid now to secure a unique piece of Club history!