Number of Participants: 37
Hours Donated: 10
Value of Time Served: $3,127
Event Type: Health & Safety
Sport: Girls Volleyball
Date: September 18, 2024
Location:
Salem High School
Willson Street, Salem
MA
About:
This week the Salem Witches Volleyball team took to the court for a meaningful cause—Mental Health Awareness Night. Competing against St. Mary’s, the team not only showcased their skills but also highlighted the critical importance of mental health in the student-athlete community.
The event featured both JV and Varsity matches, but its significance extended far beyond the games. By dedicating this night to mental health awareness, the Witches Volleyball team is actively working to break the stigma and promote open conversations about mental well-being.
In recent years, the Salem Volleyball program has increasingly engaged in addressing the mental health crisis, motivated by personal experiences. While they have always aimed to provide mental health resources for their athletes, the urgency of this conversation deepened after the tragic loss of former athlete Sarah “Sas” Starion, who passed away by suicide in May 2020.
Sarah’s passing had a profound impact on the program, prompting a shift from passive support to making mental health a central focus. A year after her loss, they organized a game in her memory, where discussions about mental health became a priority. During this event, they retired her jersey, shared her story, and invited athletes, fans, and the community to honor Sarah’s legacy of kindness and compassion. Initially, the coaching staff led these important conversations.
As they moved into the following season, the athletes expressed a desire to hold another game in honor of Sas. Traditionally, they had organized a game in October to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. However, due to scheduling conflicts, they presented their athletes with a choice: continue supporting breast cancer awareness or shift their focus to mental health. Remarkably, over 80% of the program voted in favor of prioritizing mental health.
For the past three seasons (Fall 2022, 2023, and 2024), they have hosted a Mental Health Awareness game. The program captains designed special green jerseys, and a ceremony was held where athletes discussed the stigma surrounding mental health, acknowledging that many face such challenges. Several athletes also shared their reflections on “why mental health matters.”
All proceeds from donations and snack bar sales that evening were directed toward the Sarah Starion Memorial Scholarship at Salem HS, which is awarded to one graduating senior each year. Applicants are encouraged to reflect on their own mental health experiences and consider Sas’ favorite quote: “Your legacy is every life you touch.”
Together, they are making a meaningful impact in honoring Sas’ memory and promoting mental health awareness.
