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Prince George Cougars putting mental health in the spotlight of upcoming game

Team partnering with local Canadian Mental Health Association branch
Kyle Balzer
Kyle Balzer

For some athletes, of any sport, personal struggles can be daunting to admit in front of teammates, friends and family.

The Prince George Cougars are hoping to fight that stigma and raise awareness on the importance of speaking up during the second of its home doubleheader against the Kelowna Rockets at the CN Centre next week.

The game is a partnership with the Prince George branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and its Talk Today program, now in its fourth season of helping major junior hockey playing battle their own issues when it comes to competing at a high level of sport.

It’s also the team’s goal to reach out to those in the city who walk in the same shoes as those that struggle with mental health issues.

As part of the evening, several features include CMHA kiosks on the concourse to learn more about mental health services in the city, a ceremonial puck drop and videos with Cougar players talking about opening up in times of distress.

To date, Talk Today has helped more than 900 Western Hockey League (WHL) players, coaches, billets and staff members receive mental health training.

The Cats take on the B.C.-rival Rockets Wednesday (Feb. 26) at 7 p.m.

Prince George is currently on a two-game road trip through the United States, playing in Everett tonight (Feb. 21) and in Seattle on Sunday (Feb. 23).

You can go to the CMHA Prince George website for more information on mental health and suicide prevention.