Former Wales and Cardiff Rugby stars will take to the field at Cardiff Arms Park on Friday 30th October, for the return of Match for Mental Health.

Following the inaugural fixture in 2025, this year’s match will feature a strong line-up of former players, including Shane Williams, Lloyd Williams, Josh Navidi and Scott Andrews, with further names set to be announced. Kick-off is at 7.30pm, with tickets priced at £10 for adults and free entry for under-10s.

The fixture aims to use the power of rugby to raise awareness of mental health, challenge stigma and encourage open conversations, while highlighting the support available to those who may be struggling.

This year’s event will bring together mental health organisations LooseHeadz and Tough Enough to Care, both of which work to improve awareness and support across the rugby community.

Match for Mental Health founder Nathan Mason highlighted the importance of sport in bringing people together and creating a supportive environment.

“I think we sometimes underestimate the power of sport and the impact it can have on someone’s life. Sport gives people a place to belong, people to lean on and a reason to get out there, even on the days when things feel difficult.

“That’s what Match for Mental Health is all about. It’s about using rugby to bring people together for a cause that affects so many of us, whether we talk about it openly or not.

“I’m incredibly proud to have Tough Enough to Care and LooseHeadz involved. The work they do goes far beyond raising awareness. They help create support networks, open doors for difficult conversations and remind people that asking for help is never a weakness.”

Mason also praised the work of LooseHeadz, which aims to place a Mental Health Champion in every rugby club around the world.

“The work LooseHeadz are doing to place a Mental Health Champion in every rugby club in the world is something I’m incredibly proud to be part of. Year on year, their initiatives continue to grow and provide clubs and players with better opportunities to talk openly about mental health and access support.

“Having been involved with LooseHeadz for the last few years, I’ve had the privilege of seeing first-hand the hard work and determination of the team. Having both LooseHeadz and Tough Enough to Care involved in this fixture makes the night particularly special, and I’m really looking forward to bringing the two organisations together at Cardiff Arms Park on 30th October.”

Reflecting on what success would look like for the event, Mason emphasised the importance of the conversations and connections it could create.

“For me, the real success of this event won’t just be measured in money raised or what happens on the pitch. It will be measured in the conversations started, the connections made and the people who leave knowing they’re not alone. That is why this event matters so much to me.”

Supporters can attend Match for Mental Health at Cardiff Arms Park on Friday, 30 October, with kick-off at 7.30pm. Adult tickets cost £10, while under-10s can attend for free.