Number of Participants: 17
Hours Donated: 3
Value of Time Served: $431
Event Amount Raised: $862
Event Type: Advocacy & Human Rights
Sport: Field Hockey
School: Camden Senior High School
Date: October 7, 2024
Location:
Camden High School
Camden, NY
USA
About:
On Monday, October 7th, the Camden Field Hockey programs all had important games. On a packed schedule, the modified squad faced Holland Patent, while the junior varsity and modified teams met Rome Free Academy. However, they all came together to battle a common opponent that is even more important yet: student-athlete mental health.
Monday night was Morgan’s Message Night at Camden High School. Morgan’s Message is a non-profit organization that seeks to tackle the unique challenges of student-athlete mental health. They amplify stories, provide resources and expertise to strengthen student-athlete mental health, build a community by and for athletes through peer-to-peer conversations, and provide a platform for advocacy. It was founded in memory of former Duke University lacrosse student-athlete Morgan Rodgers, who died by suicide in July 2019 after years of mental health difficulties.
Camden’s first big event was Monday’s trio of fields hockey games. They ran an information table for spectators of all ages to learn more about Morgan’s Message. Prior to the game, Student Ambassador, Ryen Lago delivered a short speech to the crowd about the meaning of this program and the impact she hopes to see from it on the Camden High School community. The evening also included raffles with the help of Olive Grove Gathering Co and Two Broke Besties, who both lent their support to the effort, and food by Dean’s Concessions, with a portion of the proceeds going to fund further Morgan’s Message initiatives. The plan is to continue this important work throughout the year and beyond.