A charity that is pioneering positive change for brain health in sport has launched a new initiative to support former sports players who are struggling because of the long-term impact of the head injuries that they sustained during their playing careers, often leading to depression and isolation.
Head for Change supports ex-players who are affected by neurodegenerative disease as a result of playing football or rugby. It was co-founded by the ex-Welsh Rugby International Alix Popham who was diagnosed with probable Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and early onset dementia in 2020, due to the traumatic brain injury he suffered in his rugby career.
To support ex-players who are experiencing isolation and depression Head for Change has launched Come Ride With Me, an initiative aimed at encouraging ex-players to exercise and to talk more.
Alix said: “Sadly, I know of lots of ex-footballers and ex-rugby players who are struggling. Many because of the long-term impact of the head injuries that they suffered during their playing careers. Many have become depressed and isolated but we can do something about that.”
“Our aim is to get these ex-players out of the house and bring them together with people who know what they are going through for a bike ride and a chat. It sounds so simple but it can make such a big difference. I know because I’ve been there.”
The charity’s ambition is to establish a series of Come Ride With Me hubs around the country. The first is in South Wales led by Alix Popham. A north of England hub is to be led by the ex-England, Saracens and Leeds rugby union player Dan Scarbrough. A London Hub is to be established and led by the former England 7s rugby international Ben Pegna.
Former England rugby player and World Cup winner Steve Thompson is one ex-player who has signed up for Come Ride With Me. Steve, who was part of England’s World Cup-winning team in 2003, has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia. He said: “I am so excited about Come Ride With Me. It is going to change a lot of things for me. It’ll help me to get out more. It will make a big difference to my health and will keep me in touch more often with my old mates from rugby.”
