Phoenix Fans Support 'I AM HOPE' Charity Auction

Football fans are getting behind the Wellington Phoenix initiative to raise funds for I AM HOPE by auctioning shirts worn in the side's 4-1 win against Macarthur FC.

The club wore specially-designed strip for the match, and players have signed their shirts for the auction on Trade Me. The auction closes on Monday November 14 but bidding is already pushing up the value of the shirts.

After early bids, the shirt of captain and goalkeeper Oli Sail leads the way with would-be buyers offering more than $600. The net proceeds will go to I AM HOPE and Gumboot Friday. I AM HOPE aims to promote positive attitudinal and societal change around mental health throughout New Zealand, offering hope and a voice to young people.

 Funds raised will be used to connect kids with mental health counsellors and practitioners in their region or online, so they can get timely support, without the added stress of how to pay the bill.

 “Mental health is Aotearoa’s number one social issue and something the club takes very seriously,” Phoenix general manager David Dome said.

 “Everyone knows someone who is dealing with mental health issues and the young men and women at the Phoenix are no different.

 “That’s why we want to support I AM HOPE and their annualGumboot Friday appeal to help normalise talk about mental health and raise funds for the great work they do in helping young New Zealanders.”

 Fans can also support the appeal by texting ‘boots’ to 469 to automatically donate $3.

 How to bid

 You can bid for a shirt at TradeMe here.

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Story by Jonathan Ross

Image credits: Wellington Phoenix