Liverpool Tritons rugby club has launched a drive to support members as the colder weather rolls in.
The club is Merseyside’s first inclusive men’s rugby union team but now also features an All-Gender Touch Rugby Team.
Winter creates barriers for many people that may keep them inside. From the shorter days, to lower motivation and less time being outside and active, the Tritons are aiming to keep training relaxed while encouraging members to communicate with each other on and off the pitch.
According to Zehnder Group UK, from 1st September until the end of February, the average UK adult will spend nine hours of their working day inside, only venturing out for three hours.
Furthermore, As many as 83 per cent of the 2,000 adults surveyed say they avoid going outside during the winter unless it is a necessity.
Keeping in regular contact with all team members, the club provides a support network for anyone who may need it. They encourage open conversations about anything.
Senior team members and club captains check in on new members during the week. These check-ins give players a clear point of contact if they’re feeling low.
Matt Grogan, Union team captain said: “Some players struggle with confidence in winter. We keep in touch with everyone in between sessions to help them feel seen.”
Training is one part of their support system. Training sessions keep players routines in places while also keeping them active.
Using these sessions to keep a routine helps players to avoid stress and lack of motivation at a time when the days are at their shortest.
“We like to keep the training structure pretty consistent because we find routine helps some people with their mental health,” Grogan said.
“The door is always open to new players to join or even if one of our current players feels they need to take a break. I feel our club has an excellent environment around it.”
The Tritons also promote healthy habits that reduce the winter strain. Coaches remind players to rest properly and set realistic goals.
Grogan said: “Winter is tough for a lot of people, our job is to make sure no one feels alone in this group. We want every teammate to feel safe here.”
Team leaders play attention to small signs. If a player withdraws then someone reaches out.
Grogan said: “A big part of being an inclusive club is understanding that players bring real-life worries with them. That could be anything, from dark days to work pressure, it all adds up.”
The club also encourages peer support. Players often form small groups that meet outside formal training. Regardless of if it’s for a casual walk or a meal, these habits help members stay connected and supported through the colder months.
The club says it focuses on people before performance.
