After trying to take his own life in 2019, Aaron Connolly realised he could use football to bring people together to talk
By Hugh MacDonald and Campbell Ramage for Nutmeg
Faces. A circle is formed. I look around. Faces. The people are largely strangers. I search the faces for a welcome, a sign of acceptance. I find it. The faces are different but they speak of strength and resilience without the burden of words.
There is the clack of studs on the floor as boots are put on. The pre-match talk is unusual. It speaks of fear and bravery. It mentions achievement and perceived failure. It talks of wounds beyond the recuperative skills of magic sponge or licensed physiotherapist. But there is healing. It can be felt. This is Time To Tackle on a Friday night in the dome outside St Mirren Stadium where two dozen people have gathered to share their experience without judgment. And to play a game of football.
