The American Poolplayers Association (APA) is serious about the game of pool. But the local chapter is also extremely serious about the health and well-being of its members. That’s why they hosted the first Mental Health Awareness Tournament in Huntsville.
Last fall, within a two-week period, the APA-North Alabama lost three of its players, tragically and unexpectedly. Parker Carnohan and Ben Ochoa died by suicide, and Carl Michael Cilyok, by overdose. They chose to create the fundraiser tournament to raise money for, and awareness of, mental health services, all while paying tribute to their dear friends.
The tournament was held at the end of August, just days before Suicide Prevention and Overdose Awareness Months. More than 40 teams gathered at Bumpers for the tournament. Through fees, raffles, and individual donations, the event raised $2,755. Proceeds benefited WellStone, which serves more than 12,000 individuals and families every year, regardless of resources.
“This tournament meant a lot to me because without mental health treatment, there’s no telling where I would be today,” said Courtney Hopkins, a former WellStone client who coordinated the inaugural event. “Everyone is struggling, not just with their mental health, but financially and emotionally. The last thing I would want to worry about is if I can afford to get treatment. I know it helped me, and led to a better life for me, my husband and my children.”
Hopkins also appreciates the crisis care services WellStone offers to teens and adults struggling with mental health and substance use emergencies, including suicidal ideations. She, along with APA-North Alabama league operators, Cyndi Harbin and Lee Zeiher, recognize the lifesaving resources WellStone provides to folks in Madison County, Cullman County, as well as surrounding communities. They all worked hard to ensure the tournament’s success. 
“We are so grateful to everyone who came out for this event and extend a special thanks to Courtney and APA-North Alabama,” said Karen Petersen, WellStone’s Director of Development. “The turnout was amazing event its. The event itself was meaningful and it was really cool to see a packed pool house full of players supporting our mission and talking openly about mental health.”
After eight hours of shooting pool, Von Bryant and Carla Dustin Patton clinched first place; Tori and Tyler Petrie, second. Both winning teams added part of their monetary prizes to the WellStone donation.
Of course, the event was about more than raising money. It was also about raising awareness and encouraging people to ask for help when they feel depressed or anxious, or if they are facing any kind of mental health or substance abuse struggle.
“I want the stigma removed from this very important cause,” Hopkins said. “Everyone matters.”
Hopkins said they plan on making the Mental Health Awareness Tournament an annual event. So grab your cue and get to work! You have less than a year to sharpen your game.