A TEXT line to help people with suicidal thoughts keep safe is being launched in memory of a former Solihull Moors player.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, which this year has ‘suicide prevention’ theme, an awareness event is being held at the Damson Parkway ground in honour of Nick Mowl, who took his life in May 2017.
On Thursday (October 10), World Mental Health Day, the text line will be switched on by charity Kaleidoscope.
It is thanks to the funds raised by Nick’s family, friends and fellow footballers over the past two years at The Nick Mowl Cup.
The community cup event sees six-a-side teams made up of professional, amateur and youth footballers go head-to-head and raise funds in the 41-year-old’s memory.
The funds from this year’s event will be handed over from 7.30pm to Kaleidoscope Plus Group on Thursday where the charity’s chief executive Monica Shafaq will speak about its work
She will be joined by ex-England player James Beattie, Doncaster Rovers manager Darren Moore, ex-Wales player David Cotterill, talk SPORT broadcaster Tom Ross and former Kidderminster player turned motivational speaker Drewe Broughton.
They will share their experiences and give help and guidance on mental health.
During his playing career Nick played for Knowle FC, Solihull Borough (now Solihull Moors), Stratford Town and Bedworth United.
He was also a coach at Solihull College, Birmingham City University, Premier Skills and for the juniors at Coventry City, before taking his in-demand skills overseas to America and latterly Australia.
Nick’s talents saw him take up a position in the ever-expanding American ‘soccer’ scene – joining the Temecula Valley Hawks in California as a coach.
Following his death, many of the youngsters Nick coached during his all-too-short career took to social media to pay tribute, describing him as one of the most genuine guys around and a great football coach who had a big impact on them and their football careers.
The 2020 Nick Mowl Cup will be held on May 16 at Solihull Moors Football Club.
For more visit www.thenickmowlcup.co.uk or www.kaleidoscopeplus.org.uk about the charity.
To donate visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/NickMowlCup.
For support text TeamKPG to 85258 to access the service.
