City star backs men's mental health campaign

Exeter City’s upcoming League One fixture against Lincoln City F.C. will carry a powerful message beyond the action on the pitch as the club backs a campaign highlighting men’s mental health.

The match tomorrow (Tuesday) night has been designated as Exeter City Disabled Supporters’ Association’s official fixture for the annual Level Playing Field ‘Unite for Access’ campaign – a nationwide initiative celebrating accessibility and inclusion at sports venues across the UK.

This year, the Exeter City Disabled Supporters’ Association (DSA) is using the campaign to shine a spotlight on men’s mental health and encourage open conversations among supporters and players alike.

Support for the initiative will be visible throughout the evening at St James Park. Exeter City players will wear branded ‘Unite for Access’ T-shirts during the pre-match warm-up, while awareness messages will appear on the stadium’s big screen, in the matchday programme and across the club’s social media channels.

In the Fan Zone, representatives from mental health organisations including Andy's Man Club, Alright Mate? and Pegasus Men's Wellbeing will be available to offer information, support and advice to supporters.

Ahead of the fixture, Exeter City captain Pierce Sweeney spoke openly about the importance of addressing men’s mental health in football and the wider community.

Sweeney said awareness around the issue has grown significantly in recent years, particularly within professional football dressing rooms.

“Over the last five, six or seven years men’s mental health has been highlighted an awful lot more,” he said. “In the changing room environment now, younger players will seek advice from older players if they’re going through difficult moments, whether it’s injury, not playing or struggling with performances.”

The Irish defender, who joined Exeter City as a teenager, said strong relationships within the squad and support from staff help create an environment where players feel comfortable speaking up.

“I think the environment we have with the staff and senior players is really good for anyone who is struggling,” he said. “Whether it’s an open conversation in the dressing room or speaking privately, we’re comfortable with that.”

Sweeney also reflected on the mental challenges players can face during long spells out with injury, revealing he found it difficult during a seven-month absence last season.

“Not being able to affect the game was the hardest part,” he said. “But the club is fantastic at supporting players through those tough times.”

He also urged supporters who may be struggling to see Exeter City as a place of community and connection.

“If anyone is struggling, come and speak to someone,” he said. “We’re normal human beings – we feel what you feel. This club is unique and there will always be someone here willing to talk.”