NAC Breda Under-19s take part in mental health workshop

NAC Breda’s Under-19 players have taken part in a mental resilience workshop focused on the challenges young footballers can face away from the pitch. The session was held at the club’s youth complex on 29 October and centred on giving an honest answer to a simple question: how are you really doing?

Youth worker Ashwien Khandai and former NAC player Thomas Marijnissen delivered the workshop on behalf of the Play Mental Foundation. The organisation draws on personal experience and professional insight to increase awareness of issues including performance pressure, stress, depression and restlessness.

The players first watched the documentary Echte mannen huilen niet, in which Marijnissen shares his own story. The film examines how mental pressure, loss and uncertainty have affected current and former professional footballers, both in their careers and personal lives. It also addresses expectations around strength in an environment where remaining silent can be common.

Marijnissen and Khandai then held an open discussion with the Under-19 squad, allowing the players to share experiences without judgement or obligation. NAC said the workshop helped the group learn more about one another beyond their identities as footballers. The session’s broader message was that young players should have space to speak honestly about their feelings while pursuing their sporting ambitions.