Archie Thompson: Being present is the most important lesson as a dad

For most Australians, Archie Thompson is known for his achievements on the football pitch. As a Socceroo, he represented Australia at the highest level, helped Australia qualify for the FIFA World Cup and experienced some of the most memorable moments in Australian football history. But when asked what he's most proud of, his answer has nothing to do with football.

This Men's Health Week, Archie is joining Movember to encourage men to prioritise their health and spend more time with the people who matter most.

The message aligns closely with Movember's recent More Than A Provider report, which found that one in four fathers rated their physical or mental health as poor or fair during their first year of fatherhood, while one in five reported feeling more isolated or lonely since becoming a parent. As a father of two adult children, Archie says one of the biggest lessons he's learnt is the importance of being present.

"When my kids were younger, I was often thinking about something else. As much as I loved them, there was always something competing for my attention. The most important thing I've learnt as a dad is to be present," said Archie.

The former footballer has previously spoken publicly about the challenges he faced following the end of his playing career, navigating major life changes and struggles with his mental health. Reflecting on that period, Archie says learning to be vulnerable and ask for support transformed not only his own wellbeing, but also his relationships with the people closest to him, "What I love about Movember is that it gives men permission to talk. It gives people the opportunity to be vulnerable and open up about what they're going through."

That openness has strengthened the relationship he has with his children. Today, his son calls him for advice, while his daughter talks to him about relationships and life's challenges, "Sometimes they want advice. Sometimes they just want someone to listen. To me, that's proof that I'm showing up in the right way," Archie reflects.

Sport has also played an important role throughout Archie's life — not just as a career, but as a way of connecting with others, "The power of sport is that it brings people together. Whether it's football, AFL, State of Origin or a round of golf with mates, it's a chance to spend time together and have conversations that might not happen otherwise."

It's one reason Movember continues to work with sporting organisations across Australia. Sport creates opportunities for connection, helping men build the relationships that support better mental health and wellbeing. This Men's Health Week, Archie is encouraging dads to make the most of those moments. His challenge is simple: carve out some one-on-one time with your child, "Go for a walk. Watch some sport together. Get out into nature. And maybe share something about yourself that they don't know," says Archie.

Because while football gave him memories he'll never forget, it's the everyday moments with his children that matter most. This Men's Health Week, we challenge all dads to make time for those one-on-one moments. You never know where the conversation might lead.