Beverly Hills, Mich. -- The University of Michigan Dearborn Men's Lacrosse team has partnered with the 15 For Life Foundation to host their first annual "15 For Life" game when the Wolverines take on Concordia University Ann Arbor on Saturday April 2 at 2:00PM at Detroit Country Day.
In an effort to shed the shame and embarrassment around depression and mental health, these two teams are tackling the topic head on by opening dialogue in a fresh and honest way.
According to 15ForLife.org, 15 For Life's mission is to better equip people of all ages to understand and recognize depression and mental illness potentially affecting themselves, family and/or friends. The 15 For Life Foundation was established after the passing of Rob Kavovit. Rob was a healthy, successful 45 yr. old man when he took his own life March 16, 2021.
Rob had a beautiful wife and 2 amazing boys, 8 & 10 years old. He had a lot to be grateful for and he was. Rob enjoyed a successful career in Lacrosse and as a result is adored and respected widely for his accomplishments. He, like many athletes, strived to be the best. Yet Rob still suffered his depression in silence, so the mission of 15 For Life is to be everything but silent while spreading awareness about depression, in Rob's case, a silent depression.
People are often stunned when they learn about Rob's suicide because there is an idea that depression is messy. Rob's story isn't that. There was no lead up, no struggle with drugs, alcohol or ongoing battles with depression. There was COVID and all the struggles many people faced but nothing that would have led those around him to think he would end his life.
With this movement, 15 For Life is normalizing the conversation that can save the lives of many who are suffering like Rob did, including athletes and young people by simply raising awareness. It's very likely you know someone who suffers this type of mental illness. Ask the hard questions, learn the signs of depression as it has many faces, talk to your kids about this so they are better equipped to handle their own life events.
The University of Michigan-Dearborn and Concordia University lacrosse teams are asking supporters to buy a commemorative 15 For Life shirt supporting either team with the proceeds from all shirt sales going directly to the 15 For Life Foundation.
University of Michigan-Dearborn Shirt Link: https://teams.powelllacrosse.com/15_for_life/shop/product-detail/1003504
Concordia University Ann Arbor Shirt Link:
https://teams.powelllacrosse.com/15_for_life/shop/product-detail/1003588
Local youth and high school sports teams are invited to attend the game free of charge. With a post-game photo opportunity involving both teams and those teams in attendance, as well as giveaways for all spectators to enter to win!
If you're interested in attending with your youth or high school program please follow the link below.
Event Registration: https://forms.gle/3wQxcikqGFxBomnDA
