Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore has called on Governor Tina Kotek to expand access to mental health services across the state. In a letter dated March 3, the 20-year-old star detailed his battle with depression during his early college years.
"Early in my college career, I found myself struggling deeply: I was depressed," Moore wrote. "The pressure and expectations that come with playing quarterback at a high level felt overwhelming at 18. Around that same time, my mother was diagnosed with cancer."
Moore’s mother, Jera Bohlen-Moore, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023 during his season at UCLA. She is now cancer-free. The quarterback emphasized how support systems and professional resources helped him recover.
"In my life, what made the difference was support," Moore said. "Support from my friends, love from my family, and access to the resources I needed to get better. As a young Black man and athlete, reaching out for help can often feel like climbing an uphill battle."
Citing data showing suicide is the second leading cause of death among young adults in Oregon, Moore urged athletes to lead beyond the field. Last season, he led Oregon to a 13-2 record, throwing for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns.
"Learning how to care for my own mental health made me a better leader, teammate, and student," Moore wrote. "That support saved me."