'Casting for Care' works to build lines of communication between Western's male students

More and more male-identified college students are struggling to make intimate connections with their peers. Often times, men use substances such as drugs and alcohol to allow themselves to become more vulnerable with one another. With this in mind Ian Vincent and Colton Gully set out to create an event where men are given the space to begin this self-work. The event they spawned - Casting for Care – is now in its second year. Its aim is to connect participants to each other, and the earth through fly fishing and professionally facilitated conversation.

This year’s Casting for Care occurred on May 12. Participants met in the early morning, by the end of the day all of them left with a better understanding of connection, resiliency, courage, and an insight into how they can implement these skills into their lives. This feeling of empowerment was created through in depth discussion facilitated by Men’s Resiliency and Prevention and Wellness staff. 

“Men’s Resiliency and Prevention and Wellness staff provided us a space to explore our emotional resiliency. We left feeling empowered to bring that conversation to our friends,” said Colton Gully.

“This event has been a great way to connect students. Combining fly fishing with my work at Men’s Resiliency has been a successful way to generate a sense of connectedness among the participants that enables them to share openly and passionately,” said Ian Vincent, Men’s Resiliency Specialist.   

In the lead up to the event, a sense of excitement reverberated throughout the campus with interest from students, staff, and faculty.

“It was great to see other departments and staff offer new ways to help support the growth of this event,” said Ian Vincent.

After the event, the Wilson Library’s Special Collections opened their space for participants to view pieces from the Paul and Mary Ann Ford Fly Fishing Collection in an effort to further expose participants to the fly fishing community. 

Men’s Resiliency and the WWU Fly Fishing Club are excited to continue this partnership as a staple event. Thanks to the Associated Students of WWU, Costa Del Mar Sunglasses, The Confluence Fly Shop, Post Fly Inc. and the WWU Counseling Center for supporting this event.