Winnipeg, MB – The Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) is pleased to continue its partnership with the CMHA Talk Today Program to support the mental health of Jr. A hockey players.
With generous support from the NHL Foundation and Fifth Line Foundation, more than 300 players across the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) will benefit from mental health awareness and suicide-prevention training this season through the continued partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Manitoba Division and local CMHA branches.
Talk Today is one of the most comprehensive mental health programs for amateur sports in Canada. It was created in 2014 and is now offered by more than 50 CMHAs nationwide.
Talk Today has four key elements:
Mandatory evidence-based mental health and suicide awareness workshops for athletes that enable them to not only recognize when a teammate, classmate, friend or family member may be struggling, but gives them tools to speak openly about suicide and assist in getting individuals support.
A designated CMHA Mental Health Coach is connected to each MJHL team so that they can help in case someone with the club is struggling or seeking mental health information or services.
MJHL clubs will host Talk Today game days with related social media activities to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with mental health and addictions issues.
A club Mental Health Champion who works with CMHA personnel to help implement the training and awareness activities.
“From the demands of schooling and home life to the pressures of elite competition and high performance, there are many factors that can affect the well-being of MJHL athletes, and it’s important to us that they know there’s support available,” said MJHL Commissioner Kevin Saurette. “Through this partnership with CMHA, we’re continuing to make mental health education and awareness a priority for our athletes and the communities in which they play.”
“Since 2014, Talk Today has created mental health conversations and reduced stigma in dressing rooms, hockey rinks and communities across Canada,” said CMHA Manitoba and Winnipeg Executive Director Marion Cooper. “Thanks to the MJHL, we’re pleased to bring Talk Today to hundreds of more players, team staff, families and fans, which we believe will create positive change and save lives.”
Please watch all MJHL and Member Team website and social channels this season as important information will be provided.
About the MJHL
The Manitoba Junior Hockey League is one of nine Junior ‘A’ Hockey Leagues in Canada and is a proud member of the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL). The MJHL exists to provide the best hockey development opportunities for its players.
Our goal is to develop players and ultimately have them develop into solid citizens who make a positive contribution to their community. Communities with a Junior ‘A’ hockey club generate their spirit in and around the community arena facilities. The goal of the MJHL is to provide its fans, communities and supporters with the best possible hockey product through dedication to improvement in all areas of the game both on and off the ice.
Mission Statement
To provide each MJHL player with an elite hockey development experience with a strong emphasis on education and positive citizenship. To deliver exciting Junior ‘A’ hockey action to fans throughout the province and enhance Manitoba communities in the spirit of sports excellence and goodwill.
