OUR MISSION
STUDENT ATHLETES ARE FACING
A MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS.
"Where there's a will, there's a way."
"The best don't rest."
"Unless you puke, faint, or die, keep going."
"Win at all costs."
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The culture of athletics makes it hard for athletes to differentiate between hard work and pushing too far. Taking care of mental health is associated with weakness.
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Although a growing number of athletes have started speaking out about their struggles, an estimated 92% of colleges still don't have adequate support for athletes. Mental and physical health remain on separate playing fields.
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The Hidden Opponent is an accredited nonprofit and advocacy group dedicated to raising awareness for student-athlete mental health. Through advocacy, education, and support, our goal is to end mental health stigma in sports culture.
ADVOCATE
We believe that all student-athletes should be able to speak openly about their mental health experiences without worrying about being judged or viewed as weak.
Our platform helps amplify the voices and needs of student-athletes.
EDUCATE
We bring light to the many issues and struggles that student-athletes face, raising awareness to break the stigma of mental health in athletic culture.
We hope to give athletic programs, clubs, and society a different perspective on the student-athlete lifestyle.
SUPPORT
This community is a safe space for all student-athletes to feel heard, supported, and loved.
We provide free access and support from mental health professionals and experts in this field.
OUR PARTNERS:
Geese Are Never Swans, written by the late Kobe Bryant, tells the story of a young swimmer, Gus, as he works towards his Olympic dreams, but also deals with mental health issues throughout the journey. The Hidden Opponent is listed as a resource at the end of the book along with the Michael Phelps Foundation. Kobe Bryant was an early supporter of The Hidden Opponent and expressed his interest in getting involved before his tragic passing in January of 2020 Interview with Victoria Garrick.
The Scooty Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission to promote, support and advance culture surrounding mental health and wellness in ways that enhance the lives and well-being of young people. The Scooty Fund pillars of action include social media connection, mental health education and crisis-prevention resources/research funding. The Scooty Fund graciously donated funds to allow many of our Campus Captains to participate in the Mood Lifters mental wellness program.
MyHuddle is a mission-driven startup that makes sports psychology coaching accessible to student-athletes right from their phone. They offer 1:1 coaching via text and video chat, group-based workshops, and on-demand online resources. As a partner of the Hidden Opponent, Campus Captains were given early access to the platform at a discounted rate. A handful of Campus Captains have provided the MyHuddle team with thoughtful feedback to help the early development of the program.
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Galea connects athletes with tailored mental health and mental performance support. Galea's network of therapists and performance coaches understand the athlete experience and are passionate about supporting athletes on and off the field. Alongside their provider network, Galea advocates for mental health in the athlete community by publishing stories and sharing resources. Galea is a platform founded by athletes, for athletes.