Atlético Star Bassett Opens up on Mental Health Struggles in Professional Sport

January 29, 2024 – Canadian Premier League (CPL) – Atletico Ottawa News Release

As we enter the second week of Soccerlude 2024, Atlético Ottawa sat down with star midfielder Ollie Bassett to discuss mental health in professional sport, and how setbacks and social isolation have influenced his career.

Bassett’s exploits last season, where he was rewarded for his exploits in front of goal as the Canadian Premier League’s (CPL) top scorer, extended beyond the pitch. A connection with a young fan named Taha during the walkout when Atleti faced up against Pacific FC at TD Place last year stole the community’s hearts. This organic and genuine encounter blossomed over the season and Bassett was recognized for his work by the CPL Volkswagen FC Game Changers awards.

The award came with a donation element, where Volkswagen stepped up to donate $2,500 to the charity of the winner’s choice. Bassett didn’t have to think for too long before deciding that he wanted to make an impact in the realm of men’s mental health, using the platform that his performances and the adoration of the Ottawa crowd – who dubbed TD Place “Olliewood”

“I think it something important to speak about, in life in general as well as specifically with athletes and soccer players,” said Bassett. “Athletes have a lot of time spent on their own, away from family and away from friends, living in different cities or even different countries. It’s a side that the public and the fans don’t often get to see, they often just see us as players, but we’re all people and feel the same way as anyone else. I’ve played in numerous different countries now, with a few different clubs and had a broad array of experience. I’ve never really spoken about my experiences publicly, but if me doing this helps a couple of people find their voice – it’s definitely going to be worth it.”

Despite only being 25 years old, Bassett’s professional career began almost 10 years ago when he moved away from his parent’s house to join Yeovil Town in League Two of the English soccer pyramid system, and quickly broke a record as the club’s youngest player to ever appear in a competitive match. It wasn’t long before a cruel aspect of the professional game reared its head for the then-17-year-old playmaker.

Ollie Bassett (17) playing for Yeovil Town FC in League Two (credit: BBC Sport)

“I was signed under the old coach at Yeovil and not long after there was a change in management,” explained Bassett. “Looking back at it now, with the…