Fatherhood race: Olympics gold medallist Duncan Armstrong helping dads be their best

Swimming is a lonely sport — so former superfish Duncan Armstrong should be used to isolation. But it seems the Olympic Games gold medallist is, like many, struggling with it. Armstrong recently rang fellow Queenslander and NFL legend Peter Civoniceva and told him he was finding it tricky, especially with the kids at home. Armstrong also made the call to launch an initiative — 2Calls2Dads — and encouraged Civoniceva to follow suit and contact his cobbers. 2Calls2Dads is the brainchild of Brisbane father Ken Houliston, who is involved with The Fathering Project, a national charity backing 2Calls2Dads. Mr Houliston said he encountered many dads needing a chat. “A friendly check-in from a mate can make a big difference,” he said. 2Calls2Dads invites blokes to call two other dads each week and ask them how they are going during the COVID-19 crisis. The purpose of the call is for dads to check in with their mates, talk about how they are going, and to share tips and strategies on how best to manage the challenges facing families. “You simply have to commit to calling two dads each week for 12 weeks,” Mr Houliston said. “You can call as many as you like, but we want to create something manageable across Australia — no matter where you live in the city or the country — we want you to check in on two other dads each week.” Armstrong said the website and support videos helped with a structure and framework to call two mates who are dads, see what they’re doing and lend support. “It’s an opportunity to make sure they’re coping with their kids at home, their partners and everything that goes into being a great dad,” he said. Civoniceva said he had mates who were doing it really tough after losing their jobs. “All of a sudden they are finding it strange being at home, trying to work out the best way to manage their time, support kids with online schooling, their partner with chores around the home and also dealing with their loss of identity,” he added. “I think this is an amazing tool for blokes to jump on and make connections and check in with their mates. This is a fantastic way to get through this challenging time, but more importantly, to be the best dad you can possibly be for the family.” The Fathering Project is a not-for-profit organisation helping build brighter futures for Australian kids by inspiring and equipping fathers and father figures to become more involved and engaged. Improving health, social, emotional and educational outcomes are also on the agenda. Register at 2calls2dads.org.