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Your Mental Health Matters

Train your mind like you train on the pitch.

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Who We Are

The Philadelphia Union Foundation believes mental fitness is as important as physical fitness.

HeadFirst is our groundbreaking initiative. It is a movement and a resource. We prepare young athletes mentally — not just physically — by building proactive mental fitness habits through the sport you love. We meet you where you are, in locker rooms and classrooms, on fields and phones, to ensure no story is ignored, and no mind is left behind.

Digital Toolkits

We have you covered on and off the field.

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Players

Tackle bullying, anxiety, social media, grief and depression.

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Coaches

Equip yourself to support your team’s mental well-being.

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Parents

Your playbook for raising a happy, healthy young athlete.

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Mental Fitness Forum

In-Person Event

HeadFirst Mental Fitness Forum

An inspiring daylong event fostering conversations on mental well-being of young athletes — for coaches, athletic directors, club administrators, and parents.

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In-Person Education

HeadFirst Education Training Sessions

Experts in sports and positive psychology “team up” to provide an interactive educational environment where participants will be learning how to build and strengthen a positive mindset towards strong mental fitness. We aim to equip players, parents and coaches with practical tools, shared language, and evidence-based strategies to support mental fitness, emotional regulation, and healthy performance under pressure.

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Coach and Player

Coach education training session

WHAT: HEADFIRST: COACH EDUCATION TRAINING SESSIONS Organized by the Philadelphia Union Foundation | Powered by HEADFIRST: Excellence in Process, presented by Independence

WHEN: Thursday, February 5th | 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM

WHERE: WSFS Bank Sportsplex 2485 Seaport Dr, Chester, PA 19013

WHO: Soccer coaches of all levels

Register now
Puf Bagtag Updated

Join the movement with HeadFirst

Get your team tagged up with free bag tags featuring a QR code that links directly to mental health resources. Help spread the word, support your players, and make sure every athlete carries a reminder that mental fitness matters.

Tag your bag
Every Story Matters

Every Story Matters Pledge

The Every Story Matters pledge is more than words. It’s a commitment to support our young athletes and communities. Take the pledge — and help change the game for mental health.

Take the pledge

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