Sartell Student-Athletes Unite to Support Mental Health Through Sophie’s Squad

What began as a single game night has grown into a powerful, community-wide commitment by Sartell student-athletes to support mental health awareness through Sophie’s Squad.

While the Sartell volleyball team proudly hosted a dedicated Sophie’s Squad match this season, they are part of a much larger movement within the district. Several Sartell athletic programs — including boys and girls hockey, girls soccer, girls swimming, softball, and volleyball — have all dedicated games or matches to Sophie’s Squad. Together, these teams are using athletics as a platform to raise awareness and support for student mental health.

Across these programs, approximately 248 Sartell student-athletes have participated in Sophie’s Squad game nights. When opposing teams join the effort, that number often doubles — expanding the reach and impact of the initiative even further.

Student-Athletes Lead the Effort

The volleyball team’s partnership with Sophie’s Squad was driven by the athletes themselves. Inspired by other Sartell programs that had already hosted Sophie’s Squad events, the players approached their coaches about organizing a match dedicated to the cause.

The athletes helped select the Sophie’s Squad shirts worn during the event and spent time after practice assembling goodie bags purchased from the foundation. Their involvement went well beyond participation — they took ownership in helping bring the event to life.

A Night Focused on Awareness and Support

For their Mental Health Awareness Night, Sartell intentionally scheduled their rivalry match against Sauk Rapids to ensure a large crowd and maximize awareness. The game held special meaning for both communities, as Sophie had been part of the Storm N’ Sabres hockey co-op that included athletes from Sartell and Sauk Rapids.

During the evening, the importance of mental health awareness and Sophie’s Squad’s mission were shared with the fans in attendance. Several efforts helped support the cause, including:

• Goodie bags distributed to every member of the opposing team
• A “pass the bucket” fundraiser that collected cash donations
• Fans purchasing Sophie’s Squad shirts to show their support
• A check presentation to Sophie’s Squad following the match

Members of Sophie’s Squad and the foundation’s founder were also present, speaking with attendees and helping to share the organization’s mission.

A Personal Connection

For many in the Sartell community, the partnership with Sophie’s Squad carries a deeply personal meaning. Several current student-athletes knew Sophie through school or activities when they were younger, and one member of the volleyball coaching staff had previously coached her in hockey.

Supporting the foundation is not simply a charitable effort — it is a way for the community to honor Sophie’s memory while continuing to advocate for mental health awareness among young people.

A Growing Community Movement

What makes Sartell’s efforts especially impactful is the widespread support across multiple sports and seasons. Teams throughout the district continue to dedicate games to Sophie’s Squad, raising both awareness and financial support for the foundation.

By coming together across programs, Sartell student-athletes are sending a clear message: mental health matters, community matters, and no one should face challenges alone.

Through their leadership and compassion, Sartell’s athletes are demonstrating how sports can serve as a powerful platform for connection, advocacy, and lasting community impact.