On February 8th, 2020, the Kelowna Rockets took on the Portland Winterhawks at Prospera Place in what was pegged as a mental health awareness game. In partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), the event stressed the importance of wellbeing and suicide prevention with a number of features that are not present in the traditional hockey game.
The mental health awareness game was complete with a CMHA-run kiosk where attendees could receive information, a video that featured players talking about their experience, public service announcements, a fundraising component, and more. In addition, the event also called attention to CMHA's 'Talk Today' program, which provides training and education to WHL players and coaches.
Mental Health Awareness Games
The Kelowna Rockets & CMHA Promote the Importance of Mental Health
Trend Themes
1. Mental Health Awareness Games - Opportunity for sports organizations to promote mental health awareness in partnership with mental health associations.
2. Wellbeing-focused Events - Rise of events that prioritize mental health and wellbeing, offering educational resources and fundraising opportunities.
3. Training and Education Programs - Increase in programs that provide mental health training and education to athletes and coaches in sports organizations.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Associations - Sports organizations can collaborate with mental health associations to raise awareness and support for mental health.
2. Mental Health Associations - Opportunity for mental health associations to partner with sports organizations to reach a wider audience and promote mental health.
3. Wellness Education Providers - Providers of mental health training and education programs can offer their services to sports organizations to support the mental wellbeing of athletes.