Number of Participants: 100
Hours Donated: 4
Value of Time Served: $3,380
Event Type: Health & Safety
Sport: Club
School: Camden Senior High School
Date: February 2, 2025
Location:
Camden High School
Camden, NY
USA
About:
At Camden High School, the mission of the Morgan’s Message Club remains unwavering – to advocate for student-athlete mental health and promote positive conversations on mental well-being. On Monday, December 9th, the club held its first-ever winter event during Camden’s varsity volleyball matchup against East Syracuse-Minoa, marking another significant milestone in the club’s journey.
Founded by student-athlete Ryen Lago, the Morgan’s Message Club is part of a larger national non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness for student-athlete mental health in honor of Morgan Rodgers, a Duke University lacrosse player who tragically died by suicide in 2019. Rodgers had faced mental health struggles while managing the pressures of being a Division I athlete. The club, led by Lago, aims to provide a space for student-athletes to seek help and openly discuss their mental health without judgment.
Lago, who has been an athlete since she was four years old, used the platform to share her personal experiences and the importance of mental health in the student-athlete community. “We’re all here to spread a common goal: Mental health is important and there is no judgment in seeking help,” Lago shared with the crowd. “It really does take a village… This community has come together for a cause, and it’s something that I cannot thank everyone enough for.”
With the support of Principal Aaron Fiorini, Athletic Director Josh Mazzaferro, and founding adviser Michelle Mellon, Lago’s dream of establishing the club quickly took shape. Through their dedication, the club raised over $600 at their first event during the fall, and the volleyball night raised an additional $400 through raffles and generous donations.
During the December 9th event, there were raffles, special t-shirts worn by players during warm-ups, and speeches from Lago and volleyball captain Hailey Gladle. A significant highlight was the announcement of a $1,000 donation from International Wire to further the club’s mission. The club also expressed its gratitude to the local sponsors who contributed to the success of the event, including Olive Grove Gathering Co., Two Broke Besties, LaRobardiere Funeral Home, M&T Treasures, Pfeif’s Powersports, and Jojo’s Empanadas.
“We are so grateful for the overwhelming support from our community,” Lago said. “Our local businesses, parents, and athletes have really stepped up to support this important cause.”
The club’s work continues to impact and inspire others, as evidenced by a member of the ESM team personally approaching Lago to thank her for her efforts in promoting mental health awareness. Lago’s vision for the club doesn’t end here, as she and the team are already planning additional events throughout the year.
Looking ahead, Camden High School’s Morgan’s Message Club is committed to expanding its reach and continuing to raise awareness about the importance of mental health in athletics.
Thank you to everyone who has supported the club thus far, and stay tuned for more events in the future!
