By Kelly Stenka
When it comes to football, players and coaches are familiar with the physical demands of the game, but Doane University counselors, coaches and players are also shining a light on the mental health aspects.
Andreea Baker, director of health and wellness and Andrew Beeson, class of 2026 and a peer educator in the Student Wellness Action Team, brought an idea to the team: placing “988” stickers on football players' helmets. “988” refers to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, where anyone can call or text if they are experiencing a mental health struggle or crisis. The stickers serve as a signal among players and coaches to encourage open conversation about mental health. This idea was inspired by Northwest Missouri State’s football team, which placed the stickers on helmets to promote mental health awareness among its players.
Darcy Dawson, Doane’s director of counseling services, notes that student-athletes often face challenges transitioning from high
school to college, especially when adjusting to a team where everyone was a top performer. Many carry personal struggles, and male students in particular may be less likely to seek help. “That’s why the stickers on their helmets are so powerful—they’re a sign to one another that mental health matters,” Dawson said, serving to position the team as leaders and advocates on campus.
Doane’s head football coach, Jonathan Johnson, is passionate about building a team culture that focuses on the whole person. “The greatest teams I’ve been part of truly cared for each other beyond the sport,” Johnson said. “When you love your teammates, you look out for them on the field and off it—through challenges in class, relationships or life at home. We want them to know they have someone who cares and an advocate they can turn to.”
Johnson also emphasizes preparing players for life beyond football. “It’s our job to make sure players are successful beyond football, because football is what they do, not who they are.” Athletes are encouraged to be involved on campus and focus on life outside of the game, helping to ensure their identity isn’t tied only to football.
Doane has integrated mental health awareness into athletics and all campus life, creating a culture where students feel supported both on and off the field. Initiatives like the “988” helmet stickers, leadership programs and free, unlimited counseling services help all students recognize that help is available.
Through these efforts, Doane continues to prepare students not just for success in sports or academics, but for life beyond college, fostering resilience, empathy and a community that cares for one another.
