By Laura Oncea, WEforum Editor
WEforum Presents
Beyond the Game: Ready for Life
Registration Live!
WEforum, in partnership with Monmouth Medical Center, RWJBarnabas Health, announces Beyond the Game: Ready for Life, a FREE Athletic Youth Mental Health Symposium dedicated to equipping youth athletes, parents, coaches, and educators with essential tools and strategies for fostering mental resilience, character development, and mental health awareness. Scheduled for January 8, 2025, at Monmouth Regional High School, this community-focused event will bring together respected coaches and experts to inspire young athletes and support their growth both on and off the field.
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Location: Monmouth Regional High School, 1 Norman J Field Way, Tinton Falls, NJ
The symposium will feature insights from top Monmouth County coaches who will discuss the importance of mental preparedness, resilience, mindset, commitment, dedication, character, “invisible PR” (principles and respect), mental health awareness, resources, and other vital topics impacting youth athletes today. By emphasizing how lessons learned on the field apply beyond sports, Beyond the Game aims to provide youth athletes in grades 6-12 and the greater community with a strong mental foundation to tackle life’s challenges.
The event will feature a DJ to create a lively and engaging atmosphere, ensuring a positive experience for all attendees. Additionally, members of Wise Up: Teen Advocacy, a dedicated group of young female mental health advocates, will present tools, tips, and resources aimed at promoting mental well-being. Their insights will provide practical strategies to help peers build and maintain mental resilience.
Featured speakers include:
Valentine Barnaby, former NFL player and owner of ESSA Sports Performance & Fitness, utilizes his extensive athletic background to mentor young athletes. A three-sport high school athlete and NCAA star at Rutgers University, Barnaby is dedicated to developing resilience, independence, and a commitment to “academics first, athletics second.” His work with youth emphasizes the importance of overcoming adversity both in sports and life. He was honored at the event as a WEforum Elite Hall of Fame Coach and a recipient of the Coaching and Training Excellence Award.
Teddy Sourlis, CEO and founder of MEN’S X MENTAL, Inc., launched his nonprofit to address the stigma around mental health among male athletes. Inspired by his own experiences and understanding that “man up” attitudes can discourage vulnerability, Sourlis will share insights on how to create supportive spaces where male athletes can openly discuss their challenges. His organization, MEN’S X MENTAL, has built an inclusive community that advocates for male mental wellness through events, awareness campaigns, and merchandise designed to spark conversation.
Darian Boyle is a decorated World Champion skier and a pioneer in women’s Freeskiing-Extreme Skiing. She is recognized as one of the top female athletes in the world, specializing in big mountain riding and ski cross. Darian is a proud member of The Sugarbush Wall of Fame in Vermont. She has frequently appeared in extreme skiing movies, sports programs, commercials, and print advertisements, representing a wide range of sponsors across various sports. In addition to her skiing accolades, she is also a nationally decorated paddle boarder and surfer. Darian’s philanthropic efforts focus on supporting adaptive athletes in their recovery and rehabilitation through surfing and skiing. Boyle hosts her podcast, Girls Gone Gritty, which inspires and celebrates resilience, courage, and the fortitude needed to find GRIT.
This event is open to all teams, students in grades 6-12, parents, coaches, and educators. Coaches are encouraged to use this opportunity to register their teams for a youth training session to enhance skills and teamwork. Registration is now open and available online. Those interested can reserve their spot at WEforum Registration.
Event Partners
This event is made possible with the support of dedicated partners, including Monmouth Medical Center, RWJBarnabas Health, Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, Mental Health Associates of Monmouth County, Tigger Stavola Foundation, Monmouth Regional High School, Rumson Schools, The Source at Red Bank Regional High School, Shore House, Ridge Road Alliance, Rumson School District, Girls Gone Gritty, ESSA Sports Performance & Fitness, Men’s X Mental, and Soffer & Associates.
WEforum invites the community to join this inspiring evening where influential coaches will share their journeys and offer practical resources to support the mental well-being of youth. Together, they aim to empower the next generation with the mindset and resilience to thrive in every pursuit.
