The Toronto Dingos, a mixed-age Aussie rules amateur football club, conduct weekly “Wednesday Waffle” video check-ins where members share life updates. This tradition was established after a tragic loss within the team in 2018 when a player, who had recently rejoined, took his own life shortly after a practice session.
The initiative aims to promote regular and meaningful connections among members to prevent such incidents in the future. According to Justin Robertson, the club’s president and coach, fostering these relationships is vital as many Canadians face challenges in maintaining friendships due to busy schedules and various commitments.
Statistics Canada data from 1986 to 2022 reveals a decline in the time Canadians spend with friends. This trend is also observed by Mike Bocian, the Dingos’ captain, who noticed a decrease in his friendships post-40 due to career focus and life demands.
The shift towards busier lifestyles has impacted social interactions, leading to scheduled meetups and planned engagements rather than spontaneous gatherings. Canadians increasingly prioritize spending time with family and friends, highlighting the importance of meaningful connections in combating isolation.
Experts emphasize the significance of genuine friendships, which offer emotional support, different perspectives, and a sense of acceptance and authenticity. Building and sustaining these relationships require effort, commitment, and vulnerability, rather than just online interactions or superficial connections.
To cultivate new friendships, individuals are encouraged to participate in group activities or regular events to establish familiarity and initiate conversations that may evolve into lasting bonds. Structured communication, like the Dingos’ “Wednesday Waffle,” provides a framework for open dialogue and mutual support among members, fostering deeper connections over time.